The Complete Idiot's Guide to Raising Boys

As a retired educator of 34 years experience, this book is a "must have". Educators need to keep a copy of this book in their library and reread it before school begins each year. Well written and lots of tips and web sites for useful information are included throughout. I bought one for my daughter to use with her now 5 year old. I also recommend this book to any female who is overwhelmed about raising boys.

I am currently a third year medical student on my psychiatry rotation. I saw a copy of this book on the shelf of my preceptor's office and I decided to take a gander and find out what I will be up against when I so choose to have boys of my own. I began reading the book with an interested-in-what-I-might-learn aspect, but quickly became very invested in reading this book on a personal level. I quickly realized this book was going to be a mental field trip for me; within the first few pages, I had multiple positive flashbacks to my own up-bringing as a boy. In just 2 days after starting this nearly 300 page guide, I am most of the way through. I have spent almost every free moment with my eyes glued to the pages. Beyond being a substantial resource from which any parent should refer, this book has provided me deep insight into the developmental process boys experience and I feel that I can relate to most of the writings within. As such, not only do I recommend this book for future parents, but this book is also a phenomenal read to discover, on a personal level, the trip each boy takes growing up. I have enjoyed reading to this point and praise the authors for their easy to read, informative, and fun format. The husband-wife team also make many references to the workings of their own family which helps to make the advice offered more tangible to undertake.

What a great resource written by this husband and wife team. They each have their own area of expertise which adds great insight into this book. Even better is their realistic expectations of what you can expect when raising boys. Neither author admits perfection in the raising of their two teenage sons, but they give solid advice on the time proven techniques of raising boys, as well as relavent current advice in this fast changing world of ours. The book discusses virtually any topic which may come up in the raising of a boy and no topics are taboo. The book takes you from saying hello to your new son as he arrives from mom's belly right on to him becoming a young man. The four parts, broken down into 21 chapters, flow logically and smoothly. An extensive resource list is included in the back if you need more advice on any of the topics. After reading this book, my wife and I both feel more confident in the decisions we're making in raising our son. What we learned is that their is no magic answer to being a parent. Hard work, communicating, monitoring, listening, common sense, and understanding are all key to raising a healthy, well-adjusted boy. You will have more good days than bad if you follow the authors' well laid out advice. A great quick reference guide as well as an enjoyable read. And most importantly, the authors remind all parents to allow themselves to laugh and have fun with their children! W. Watson