Of Boys and Men by Richard V. Reeves

Of Boys and Men

Subtitle: Why the Modern Male Is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What to Do about It

Author: Richard V. Reeves

Genre: Nonfiction, Social Sciences, Feminism

Publish Date: May 2024

Read: August 2025

Favorite Quote: One of the great revelations of feminism may turn out to be that men need women more than women need men. Wives were economically dependent on their husbands, but men were emotionally dependent on their wives.

Synopsis: Richard Reeves starts a fascinating conversation in his book, Of Boys and Men. He states that boys and men are struggling: economically, emotionally, socially, and intellectually. But why? While changes in classrooms and institutions have improved for women dramatically, men find themselves in the same or even worse situation than previous generations.

Why does this book beguile? I was reticent to read a book about “the tragedy of men feeling left behind” in today’s environment, but who would I be if I didn’t seek out ways to challenge my assumptions? I was pleasantly surprised by this book. While I tend to see a lot of straight, white, rich males in my world, it’s very true that the majority of men are floundering (at best). Women and girls are finding independence: in schools, in social circles, in finances, and in their careers. Unfortunately, as Reeves states, the systems and institutions we have to lift up women have somehow simultaneously failed men. What I also liked about this book is the actions Reeves proposes - both at an individual and societal level. A must read for everyone who knows a man - especially parents of young boys.

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