Parenting boys has always held special challenges. Today, the decline of traditional families, shifting values, the lure of gangs, the loss of positive male role models, and the widespread depiction of irresponsible sexuality can all lure boys away from the direction in which we hope they will grow. In this insightful and practical book, Michael Gurian describes what boys need to become strong, responsible, sensitive men.Instead of encouraging us to stifle boys' natural propensities for competition and aggression, Gurian teaches us to value these traits in our boys. He shows how the evils boys are susceptible to, including gangs, sexual misconduct, and crime, become necessary outlets when positive role models and adult support are not available. Gurian explains what a boy really needs - a primary and an extended family, relationships with mentors, and intense support from his school and community - and details how we can provide these things for the boys we love. Most important, he offers effective and practical guidelines for channeling boys' aggressive and exploratory tendencies, and tells how to satisfy a boy's need for a sense of tribe.The Wonder of Boys offers a concrete plan that begins at home, but extends deep into the community. Gurian has the courage to advocate for moral and spiritual values, for teaching boys about sex and love, and finally for a new male model of "husbandry," not just of family, but also of the community and the earth. Read Less