It’s hard to find modern books where ordinary boys are heroes whose strengths are gifts to be used for good.

In so much modern literature, boyhood is a disease to be cured and masculinity is a villain poised to destroy. In my books, young men learn that their energy and strength are gifts they are given so they can serve the vulnerable and help set things right.

Boys—as boys—don’t need to be cured, but coached.

I hear from many parents who are determined to find optimistic depictions of masculinity that their growing boys can latch on to. Boys are hungry for brave quests and noble causes, but have been poisoned into passivity and perversity by an unmoored culture that rejects their gifts.

There are real dangers with men who become tyrannical and abusive, but the very best check against such men is giving boys a positive vision for what it means to be a good man.​

All of my books have this generous disposition toward the needs of boys at their heart. It should come as no surprise that moms and girls love them, too. They want those kinds of sons and brothers and friends and, eventually, husbands.

The world needs them.

There’s an eloquently simple song we sing about Jesus, the ultimate man (and fully God, of course). It’s called Jesus, Strong and Kind. I think that is a beautiful summary of the gifts boys (and men) can offer the world.

Boyhood is wonderful, and I want to be your ally in encouraging, equipping, and inspiring your boys to step boldly into their callings.

I’m on your side!

Sam

P.S. If this post resonated with you, please forward it to a friend or share this Instagram or Facebook post so they can be encouraged, too.

P.P.S. Already read Green Ember and want more stories that celebrate boyhood as a gift? We’ve put together this BOLD adventure audio bundle with boys in mind to inspire bravery and courage. Pick up the physical copies to read along.

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