The End of Men?

by Simon Smart

What makes a good man?

In this grounded, forthright and hopeful book, Simon Smart reconsiders the place of boys and men in today's world.

Models of masculinity may be less constricting than they used to be – but boys and men are confused about what’s expected of them, and it shows. In education, in mental health, in relationships, they’re struggling. And we’re all struggling to have a constructive conversation about the challenges they face.

Drawing on his own experiences of schooling and fatherhood, the best contemporary research, interviews with those on the front lines of a growing crisis, as well as ancient wisdom, Simon asks the question: how can we help boys become their best selves, and a gift to those around them?

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Christianity

136 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2024

Reviews

[Declan Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simon Smart wades into a complex, sensitive and controversial topic in this book - masculinity. Thankfully, Simon's engagement with it is nuanced and thoughtful. The book canvasses a range of literature on culture and masculinity, drawing key insights from psychologists and spiritual leaders. It also explores how Christian teaching could offer a way forward for men, without being too 'on the nose'.

Overall, I would highly recommend it as a concise and informative engagement with the topic from a Christian perspective. It's also the kind of book that could be used as a winsome outreach tool for our deeply divided society.

[Nigel Fortescue · Rating 4 out of 5]

An insightful look at masculinity in the 21st century.
There is so much more to being masculine than being macho. If we broaden the lens and consider the whole picture we may just discover the place true strength is found.

[Laura Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

A warm hearted, honest, and hopeful discussion about masculinity. Not a book interested in stoking any moral panic, as appears the sport of many progressive and conservative commentators in regards to modern manhood. Instead, like an engaging guide, Smart takes us on a tour of masculinity as if it were a city in part ruin and rubble, but at its heart vast and beautiful, and with exponential potential. A hugely insightful and practical read for anyone wanting to be or steward men who are honourable, courageous, emotionally mature, curious, and compassionate, and thriving in wholesome reciprocal relationships with family, friends, community, and the wider world.

I look forward to recommending this book widely.

[Sofia Walia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not gonna lie.. when simon said he was writing this book, at first, i was sceptical. like, isn't there enough male centred content out there?

but it was so well constructed and thought out ive been convinced. a really beautiful argument with God at the centre

[Colin Timbrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book explores the models of masculinity of the past and present with hope for the future. How is a bloke supposed to feel and act in this modern world? Smart assesses the emerging ideas and sifts for nuggets in the dross. Too often we throw the baby out with the bathwater. Jesus embodied how men are to live, and he remains our best hope for a positive masculinity. I enjoyed reading Smart's journey of thinking through this important issue.