How Not To Be a Boy: Summary Review
This is a summary review of How Not To Be a Boy containing key details about the book.
What is How Not To Be a Boy About?
"How Not To Be a Boy" is a memoir by comedian and actor Robert Webb that explores his experiences growing up as a boy and man in England. In the book, Webb reflects on how societal expectations of masculinity have shaped his life and relationships, and he challenges the traditional notions of what it means to be a "real" man.
In How Not To Be a Boy, the author writes about his childhood, parenthood and other life events, using the experiences to discuss masculinity, gender roles and feminist topics. Major life events include his mother's death from cancer, his attendance at the University of Cambridge and the births of his two daughters.
Summary Points & Takeaways from How Not To Be a Boy
Some key summary points and takeaways from the book include:
* The impact of toxic masculinity: Webb writes about how toxic masculinity can lead to harmful behavior, such as domestic violence and aggression. He also reflects on how these societal expectations have negatively impacted his own life, including his relationships with women and other men.
* The importance of emotional intelligence: Webb highlights the value of emotional intelligence in relationships and in life in general. He argues that being able to understand and express emotions is a vital component of personal growth and wellbeing.
* Breaking down gender stereotypes: Through his own experiences, Webb explores how gender stereotypes can be limiting and harmful to both men and women. He calls for greater openness and inclusiveness in our societal definitions of masculinity and femininity.
* The role of parenting in shaping gender expectations: Webb writes about the role that parents and other caregivers play in shaping children's understanding of gender roles and expectations. He encourages parents to be mindful of the messages they impart to their children about gender and to promote a more equitable and inclusive understanding of masculinity and femininity.
* The need for greater emotional openness: Ultimately, "How Not To Be a Boy" is a call for greater emotional openness and authenticity in our relationships and in society as a whole. By breaking down the walls of toxic masculinity, Webb argues, we can create a more harmonious and fulfilling world for all people, regardless of gender.
Who is the author of How Not To Be a Boy?
Robert Patrick Webb is an English comedian, actor, writer, and television personality. He is one half of the double act Mitchell and Webb, alongside David Mitchell. Webb and Mitchell both starred in the Channel 4 sitcom Peep Show, in which Webb plays Jeremy "Jez" Usbourne.
Book details
- Print length: 337 pages
- Genre: Nonfiction, Biography, Memoir
What are the chapters in How Not To Be a Boy?
Chapter 1. Boys Can't Get Enough of Dad
Chapter 2. Boys Aren't Shy
Chapter 3. Boys Love Sport
Chapter 4. Boys Are Brave
Chapter 5. Boys Are Never Teacher's Pet
Chapter 6. Boys Don't Fall in Love (with other boys)
Chapter 7. Boys Are Not Virgins
Chapter 8. Boys Don't Cry
Chapter 9. Men Are Organised
Chapter 10. Men Don't Take Themselves Too Seriously
Chapter 11. Men Don't Need Therapy
Chapter 12. Men Understand Women
Chapter 13. Men Are Good at Directions
Chapter 14. Men Know Who They Are
What is a good quote from How Not To Be a Boy
Top Quote: “One way of imagining life is that it’s a competition between love and death. Death always wins, of course, but love is there to make its victory a hollow one. That’s what love is for.” (Meaning) - How Not To Be a Boy Quotes, Robert Webb
What do critics say?
Here's what one of the prominent reviewers had to say about the book: “A witty, honest coming-of-age story with a subtext that tackles masculinity and manhood. Webb has a storytelling skill many would kill for.” — Ian Rankin
* The editor of this summary review made every effort to maintain information accuracy, including any published quotes, chapters, or takeaways. If you're interested in enhancing your personal growth, I suggest checking out my list of favorite self-development books. These books have been instrumental in my own personal development and I'm confident they can help you too.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
