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Man Down
An ambitious, thought provoking novel perfect for fans of Louise O'Neill or the Netflix series The End of the F***ing World.
Will Parks is being followed.
Someone is watching him, feeding him glimpses of the future - steering him down paths he would never have dared to take alone.
But these supernatural tip-offs are doing more for Will than just boosting his popularity, or keeping him out of trouble in the dead-end town he calls home. They have a purpose.
Because a tragedy is coming. One that only Will can prevent. But only if he is ready to step up. Only if he's prepared to become the man he's meant to be.
391 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 3, 2022
11 people are currently reading
476 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
December 13, 2021
What an excellent book! An unflinching examination of teenage peer pressure and toxic masculinity and the relentless imperative to perform - and finding the courage to have feelings and be vulnerable and to care instead.
I love the question it poses throughout: are you a hero if no one knows what you did? And the gentle reminder that doing things for the right reason is its own reward, even if you end up humiliated because of it.
And the last lines of the book, that moment of unexpected hope - perfect.
I love the question it poses throughout: are you a hero if no one knows what you did? And the gentle reminder that doing things for the right reason is its own reward, even if you end up humiliated because of it.
And the last lines of the book, that moment of unexpected hope - perfect.
May 2, 2022
Gah, all the shelves, all the feels.
Difficult to label, tough to process, but important to read.
(yeh, I cried).
Difficult to label, tough to process, but important to read.
(yeh, I cried).
April 22, 2022
Well, the plot of this compelling read covers a number of genre's and ended up going in directions that I certainly wasn't expecting when I read the synopsis.
The story is predominantly about seventeen year old William Parks who lived with his mother and elder (Neanderthal) brother Danny and was one of life's invisible people,felt like he was always in the wrong and the need to constantly apologise for his actions (boy, I can really empathise with those feelings) The only person with whom Will felt any true connection was with his Nain (Nan) whose brain was gradually being destroyed by the terrifying, debilitating condition that is known as dementia. Will was the only member of his family who really showed any compassion towards the poor old lady and it was heart breaking witnessing the way that she was ridiculed during what the other's referred to as her 'episodes' Will was in the confusing limbo land between being a child and becoming a Man and the author had imbued his main character with a realistic blend of conflicting feelings and emotions. Will viewed himself as a wimp, a conviction that wasn't helped by the sexist and demeaning attitudes of his brother and obnoxious father but little did he realise the effects that finding himself trapped in his brother's car one Friday evening with Danny and a girl called April will have on his life and future. Will suddenly finds himself living something which closely resembles the plot of a episode of The Twilight Zone only this isn't fiction,it's Will's reality. Many people's lives will depend on him making the correct choices and decisions. So is Will strong enough in character to break the habits of a lifetime or is he destined to spend his life being one of the invisible people?
Will was a really likeable, caring individual who, at the start of the story did actually come across as a bit of a wimp and it was fascinating witnessing the changes in his character,demeanour and personality as the story unfolded. There was one point in the story when I actually cheered and wanted to reach into the book and give him a high five. I loved the interactions between Will and his Nain and also with my favourite character, poor, deeply troubled Alfie, a flawed individual who like many of us was hiding so much pain behind the mask of a happy, jovial clown. I had mixed feelings about April, there was times when I liked her and times when I didn't. She really was a emotionally messed up young lady but I suppose that was completely understandable when you took events from her past into consideration.
Interspersed throughout the story was chapters that were written in italics and voiced from the perspective of someone or something who was apparently stalking Will because they knew his every move. This individual insisted that they were preparing Will for a life changing task but what was that task and who was the mysterious narrator of these chapters. Believe me, you won't see the answer to that question coming, when the truth was revealed I almost dropped the book in shock and surprise and found myself doing a very bad impersonation of omg cat.
The pages of this strangely captivating,complex story are permeated with a chilling sense of foreboding and a large dose of the supernatural. The author cleverly manipulates the reader into believing that tragedy is going to strike in more than one setting of his story causing your feelings of tension and anxiety to ramp up to the max. The intelligently written plot covers a wide range of relatable and realistic issues including bullying, toxic masculinity, homophobia, suicide, first love, mental health issues, judgement and the social divide. It's a powerful story that causes me to experience a wide range of conflicting emotions and had a genuinely unexpected, unpredictable conclusion. To be honest,I did struggle at times to finish the book but that was more to do with my own mental health issues than the story itself. In the end, I did enjoy being a passenger on Will's life changing journey and I would gladly read more of this author's books in the future.
The story is predominantly about seventeen year old William Parks who lived with his mother and elder (Neanderthal) brother Danny and was one of life's invisible people,felt like he was always in the wrong and the need to constantly apologise for his actions (boy, I can really empathise with those feelings) The only person with whom Will felt any true connection was with his Nain (Nan) whose brain was gradually being destroyed by the terrifying, debilitating condition that is known as dementia. Will was the only member of his family who really showed any compassion towards the poor old lady and it was heart breaking witnessing the way that she was ridiculed during what the other's referred to as her 'episodes' Will was in the confusing limbo land between being a child and becoming a Man and the author had imbued his main character with a realistic blend of conflicting feelings and emotions. Will viewed himself as a wimp, a conviction that wasn't helped by the sexist and demeaning attitudes of his brother and obnoxious father but little did he realise the effects that finding himself trapped in his brother's car one Friday evening with Danny and a girl called April will have on his life and future. Will suddenly finds himself living something which closely resembles the plot of a episode of The Twilight Zone only this isn't fiction,it's Will's reality. Many people's lives will depend on him making the correct choices and decisions. So is Will strong enough in character to break the habits of a lifetime or is he destined to spend his life being one of the invisible people?
Will was a really likeable, caring individual who, at the start of the story did actually come across as a bit of a wimp and it was fascinating witnessing the changes in his character,demeanour and personality as the story unfolded. There was one point in the story when I actually cheered and wanted to reach into the book and give him a high five. I loved the interactions between Will and his Nain and also with my favourite character, poor, deeply troubled Alfie, a flawed individual who like many of us was hiding so much pain behind the mask of a happy, jovial clown. I had mixed feelings about April, there was times when I liked her and times when I didn't. She really was a emotionally messed up young lady but I suppose that was completely understandable when you took events from her past into consideration.
Interspersed throughout the story was chapters that were written in italics and voiced from the perspective of someone or something who was apparently stalking Will because they knew his every move. This individual insisted that they were preparing Will for a life changing task but what was that task and who was the mysterious narrator of these chapters. Believe me, you won't see the answer to that question coming, when the truth was revealed I almost dropped the book in shock and surprise and found myself doing a very bad impersonation of omg cat.
The pages of this strangely captivating,complex story are permeated with a chilling sense of foreboding and a large dose of the supernatural. The author cleverly manipulates the reader into believing that tragedy is going to strike in more than one setting of his story causing your feelings of tension and anxiety to ramp up to the max. The intelligently written plot covers a wide range of relatable and realistic issues including bullying, toxic masculinity, homophobia, suicide, first love, mental health issues, judgement and the social divide. It's a powerful story that causes me to experience a wide range of conflicting emotions and had a genuinely unexpected, unpredictable conclusion. To be honest,I did struggle at times to finish the book but that was more to do with my own mental health issues than the story itself. In the end, I did enjoy being a passenger on Will's life changing journey and I would gladly read more of this author's books in the future.
August 17, 2024
Will is 17 and the only person he is really close to is his Nain (his grandma) who is steadily going down hill. Will is seen as a bit of a wimp who won’t stand up for himself by most people. When he starts getting messages that help him prevent tragedies, Will has to confront the question “are you really a hero if nobody knows?” Over the course of the story Will starts to learn how to be himself and make a difference despite everyone else’s expectations of what a man should be.
This was a really interesting and thoughtful story. I liked the concept of how Will was getting messages and where they were coming from. Will was easy to route for and I really liked Alfie as well. Will’s character growth felt really well thought out and none of it was too much of a leap. The book contained lots of heavy hitting topics around mental health, toxic masculinity and healthy relationships, and these topics were discussed delicately and sensibly without the book trying too hard to push any messages.
This was a well thought out book and I was invested throughout.
This was a really interesting and thoughtful story. I liked the concept of how Will was getting messages and where they were coming from. Will was easy to route for and I really liked Alfie as well. Will’s character growth felt really well thought out and none of it was too much of a leap. The book contained lots of heavy hitting topics around mental health, toxic masculinity and healthy relationships, and these topics were discussed delicately and sensibly without the book trying too hard to push any messages.
This was a well thought out book and I was invested throughout.
April 18, 2022
Thanks to #TheWriteReads and Penguin Books for making this book available to me as part of the Blog Tour.
I have not read a book like this before and I doubt I will ever read anything like this again. This book shines a spotlight on toxic masculinity and what it really means. I mean the title of this book is a whole complexity in itself. Man Down, we are used to hearing people tell guys to Man Up, usually when it comes to doing something associated with bravery that is typically coupled with misogyny and toxic masculinity. when we hear Man Down, it usually means that we have one less person, so in either case (Man Up or Man Down), there is a general assumption of masculine bravery or masculine generalization of the public. The title of this book captures the complexities of the emotions of Will Parks.
At the start of this book we meet Will Parks who unlike other men in his small town does not feel the need to join or start pub fights that could be solved with a simple sorry or apology. But people want a scene and when he doesn't give them that he is a 'pussy', not man enough. We see Will defy the norms, unwilling to put on a fake face of bravery despite everyone around him edging him to pretend, from the boys at school to his father and brother. You either fight or you are gay. This bring me to the second point, homophobia, I loved how James was able to reveal the strings between toxic masculinity and homophobia. From the 'Bro' jokes to the need to please, using Will's own mother to highlight this fear was great.
With all this teenage things happening (GSCE's, secondary school problems, friendships, love and his sudden attraction to another boy) to Will, he begins to notice that someone is watching him. People start walking up to him and thanking him for a act of bravery and kindness he doesn't remember doing. With his beloved gran suddenly in the hospital, saying things that he doesn't understand, warming him of something to come, Will is sure that something more is happening in the town. With his visions of the future, he knows that something is coming and he might be the only one to stop it. Will he be the hero the town need? can he even be the hero the town needs? He the overlooked? the underappreciated?
Until the very last moment when 'Will Jumps', he himself cannot believe that he choose to be the hero that no one remembers.
This book is certainly a heavy read but one I think a lot of people should read because it unveils not just the realities of toxic masculinity but the minute ways that we promote it and the devastating effect it can have not just on one life but an entire community.
Do look out for the trigger warning, homophobia, death, attempted rape, underage sex, attempted suicide etc.
I have not read a book like this before and I doubt I will ever read anything like this again. This book shines a spotlight on toxic masculinity and what it really means. I mean the title of this book is a whole complexity in itself. Man Down, we are used to hearing people tell guys to Man Up, usually when it comes to doing something associated with bravery that is typically coupled with misogyny and toxic masculinity. when we hear Man Down, it usually means that we have one less person, so in either case (Man Up or Man Down), there is a general assumption of masculine bravery or masculine generalization of the public. The title of this book captures the complexities of the emotions of Will Parks.
At the start of this book we meet Will Parks who unlike other men in his small town does not feel the need to join or start pub fights that could be solved with a simple sorry or apology. But people want a scene and when he doesn't give them that he is a 'pussy', not man enough. We see Will defy the norms, unwilling to put on a fake face of bravery despite everyone around him edging him to pretend, from the boys at school to his father and brother. You either fight or you are gay. This bring me to the second point, homophobia, I loved how James was able to reveal the strings between toxic masculinity and homophobia. From the 'Bro' jokes to the need to please, using Will's own mother to highlight this fear was great.
With all this teenage things happening (GSCE's, secondary school problems, friendships, love and his sudden attraction to another boy) to Will, he begins to notice that someone is watching him. People start walking up to him and thanking him for a act of bravery and kindness he doesn't remember doing. With his beloved gran suddenly in the hospital, saying things that he doesn't understand, warming him of something to come, Will is sure that something more is happening in the town. With his visions of the future, he knows that something is coming and he might be the only one to stop it. Will he be the hero the town need? can he even be the hero the town needs? He the overlooked? the underappreciated?
Until the very last moment when 'Will Jumps', he himself cannot believe that he choose to be the hero that no one remembers.
This book is certainly a heavy read but one I think a lot of people should read because it unveils not just the realities of toxic masculinity but the minute ways that we promote it and the devastating effect it can have not just on one life but an entire community.
Do look out for the trigger warning, homophobia, death, attempted rape, underage sex, attempted suicide etc.
April 20, 2022
What's it about (in a nutshell):
Man Down by James Goodhand is a supernatural tale about the unlikeliest of heroes and the events that made him what he becomes.
What I Enjoyed:
I loved the supernatural elements. Based on the book's description, I didn't expect them, and the surprise of that aspect, as well as the component itself, are a compelling force that kept the pages turning. I wanted to know if Will Parks indeed had premonitions or if it was just his anxiety. And the two people that kept warning him of things to come – were they real or imagined? It provided me with many spine-chilling moments as the book progressed.
I didn't care for the world full of toxic masculinity that Will lived in, but I liked what that meant for Will's character development. All the men in this story are crude, base, misogynistic, and spoiling for a fight, except for Will Parks, his friend Alfie, and another schoolmate Kris. His brother, the men that came into the bar where he worked, and others around him left me cold with their depiction. But nothing makes someone stand out more than if they are different from the pack.
This character-driven story is told in limited third-person narration, focusing solely on Will Parks. His story is atmospheric and full of darkness and question. For the first seventy-five percent of the novel, I wasn't sure where the story was going or if I wanted to go there. But the last twenty-five percent made me glad that I had, and the ending… oh my, what an ending. Book clubs and teachers will love to discuss that ending and how it reframes the whole story.
What I Wish:
All men other than Will and a few of his friends being so toxically masculine left me wondering where all of the real men were. Where are the masculine men who treat women and other men with respect? Many exist in the world, but poor Will Parks didn't have any such role model and thus was open to all that he had to go through. I wish that his environment had been more reflective of the real world.
Characters:
Will Parks is a tall young man, and he does not enjoy things like sports, lifting weights, and meaningless sexual encounters. He has many anxieties and would rather keep the peace than participate in a physical fight. Everyone around him questions his sexuality because of this, causing him to ask if he was wrong about who he is and who he is attracted to. His life is filled with struggle, and he has to either overcome or be defined by the people around him.
To Read or Not to Read:
If you are looking for a unique, fresh voice telling a story about what it means to be a man in a world full of toxic masculinity and enjoy an ending that will lead you to contemplate for many days after you close the book for the last time, Man Down is just the book you are looking for.
Man Down by James Goodhand is a supernatural tale about the unlikeliest of heroes and the events that made him what he becomes.
What I Enjoyed:
I loved the supernatural elements. Based on the book's description, I didn't expect them, and the surprise of that aspect, as well as the component itself, are a compelling force that kept the pages turning. I wanted to know if Will Parks indeed had premonitions or if it was just his anxiety. And the two people that kept warning him of things to come – were they real or imagined? It provided me with many spine-chilling moments as the book progressed.
I didn't care for the world full of toxic masculinity that Will lived in, but I liked what that meant for Will's character development. All the men in this story are crude, base, misogynistic, and spoiling for a fight, except for Will Parks, his friend Alfie, and another schoolmate Kris. His brother, the men that came into the bar where he worked, and others around him left me cold with their depiction. But nothing makes someone stand out more than if they are different from the pack.
This character-driven story is told in limited third-person narration, focusing solely on Will Parks. His story is atmospheric and full of darkness and question. For the first seventy-five percent of the novel, I wasn't sure where the story was going or if I wanted to go there. But the last twenty-five percent made me glad that I had, and the ending… oh my, what an ending. Book clubs and teachers will love to discuss that ending and how it reframes the whole story.
What I Wish:
All men other than Will and a few of his friends being so toxically masculine left me wondering where all of the real men were. Where are the masculine men who treat women and other men with respect? Many exist in the world, but poor Will Parks didn't have any such role model and thus was open to all that he had to go through. I wish that his environment had been more reflective of the real world.
Characters:
Will Parks is a tall young man, and he does not enjoy things like sports, lifting weights, and meaningless sexual encounters. He has many anxieties and would rather keep the peace than participate in a physical fight. Everyone around him questions his sexuality because of this, causing him to ask if he was wrong about who he is and who he is attracted to. His life is filled with struggle, and he has to either overcome or be defined by the people around him.
To Read or Not to Read:
If you are looking for a unique, fresh voice telling a story about what it means to be a man in a world full of toxic masculinity and enjoy an ending that will lead you to contemplate for many days after you close the book for the last time, Man Down is just the book you are looking for.
April 5, 2022
Will Parks has no friends, his life is in chaos and he’s just started 6th form at Ebbswick Comunity Secondary School. He longs for his old life whilst battling to make sense of the world around him. He is a loner, frightened of interaction and confrontation and his nostalgia for a past life manifests itself in his love of 60’s novels, 80’s movies and 90’s dance music. He loves his Nan and beach walks in the rain. But Will’s life is about to change and one September evening by the level crossing at Patten’s Island so it begins.
This is a brave and complex novel exploring the frightening challenges of growing from a boy to a man without crashing and burning from the impact of peer pressure and toxic masculinity. A thoroughly absorbing read from beginning to end with the author cleverly weaving a compelling storyline of complex teenage emotions.
I enjoyed getting to know Will Parks and was hooked on the energy and pace of the writing. The storyline throws curve balls and red herrings in a cleverly engaging way and as Will’s life develops from that night at the level crossing, his love of black and white photography and a half term school project, together with ‘otherworldly’ premonitions lead Will on a journey that in a few short weeks sees him become a man and realise his destiny.
Man Down is a complex emotional rollercoaster reaching deep into teenage anxiety and exploring what lies behind the smile. It is a story of love, friendship, loss and hope. It covers issues that affect or have affected all of us. A totally absorbing read with a pace that over the last few chapters accelerates to a shattering climax. This book is an absolute must read and one that I will definitely be reading again.
This is a brave and complex novel exploring the frightening challenges of growing from a boy to a man without crashing and burning from the impact of peer pressure and toxic masculinity. A thoroughly absorbing read from beginning to end with the author cleverly weaving a compelling storyline of complex teenage emotions.
I enjoyed getting to know Will Parks and was hooked on the energy and pace of the writing. The storyline throws curve balls and red herrings in a cleverly engaging way and as Will’s life develops from that night at the level crossing, his love of black and white photography and a half term school project, together with ‘otherworldly’ premonitions lead Will on a journey that in a few short weeks sees him become a man and realise his destiny.
Man Down is a complex emotional rollercoaster reaching deep into teenage anxiety and exploring what lies behind the smile. It is a story of love, friendship, loss and hope. It covers issues that affect or have affected all of us. A totally absorbing read with a pace that over the last few chapters accelerates to a shattering climax. This book is an absolute must read and one that I will definitely be reading again.
April 14, 2022
Thank you The Write Reads for the chance to be on the book tour for Man Down by James Goodhand.
Man Down is a young adult book that came out the 3rd of March, 2022. It was published by Penguin, and despite the paperback being 400 pages, Man Down is a very quick read.
I’m struggling to write a review that doesn’t contain too many spoilers, so if you want to avoid any chance of those I recommend you just read the blurb and buy the book! I’m leaving it a solid 4 stars!
Will Parks, our main character is getting really odd messages. The messages help his friends and family avoid some really catastrophic situations; although it’s the messages that help him get friends in the first place.
Will was an odd main, I rarely remember reading about a character who was this non-confrontational. I also had to remind myself to not judge him at a point; after all he is a child. I shouldn’t sit there and think that as a dude he needs to be more aggressive, when I know I’m still not expected to be.
But I also loved how the messages helped him grow a bit and come into his own. Will is shown to be a talented, likeable person, who struggled and got caught up in his own head with people around him who were so much more out there. Will is able to save that girl, which had nothing to do with the messages, but a lot to do with his quick thinking.
I didn’t see the twist of who the messages were coming from until close to the end, and even then I wasn’t a hundred percent sure, which I liked. I also love that he does get a chance to do it all over.
If Will was real, I’d like to tell him I’m rooting for him.
Man Down is a young adult book that came out the 3rd of March, 2022. It was published by Penguin, and despite the paperback being 400 pages, Man Down is a very quick read.
I’m struggling to write a review that doesn’t contain too many spoilers, so if you want to avoid any chance of those I recommend you just read the blurb and buy the book! I’m leaving it a solid 4 stars!
Will Parks, our main character is getting really odd messages. The messages help his friends and family avoid some really catastrophic situations; although it’s the messages that help him get friends in the first place.
Will was an odd main, I rarely remember reading about a character who was this non-confrontational. I also had to remind myself to not judge him at a point; after all he is a child. I shouldn’t sit there and think that as a dude he needs to be more aggressive, when I know I’m still not expected to be.
But I also loved how the messages helped him grow a bit and come into his own. Will is shown to be a talented, likeable person, who struggled and got caught up in his own head with people around him who were so much more out there. Will is able to save that girl, which had nothing to do with the messages, but a lot to do with his quick thinking.
I didn’t see the twist of who the messages were coming from until close to the end, and even then I wasn’t a hundred percent sure, which I liked. I also love that he does get a chance to do it all over.
If Will was real, I’d like to tell him I’m rooting for him.
March 31, 2022
Utterly original.
This is the story of Will.
A son, a brother, a grandson even. But beyond that, he is a young man trying to navigate his socially awkward self through some tough times.
The underlying subject of this tale is toxic masculinity.
And it is done so well.
It poses the question to the reader, can you even be a hero if no one actually knows about it?
Powerful.
Emotional.
Compelling.
This is a novel that for me, was completely unexpected.
I really enjoyed how the author explored everything. Dark at times, it was refreshing to read things from a male perspective. The peer pressure, the idea that you can't do the right thing for fear of being humiliated.
It sat on the edge of being both a YA and an adult novel with its subject matter.
Man Down is a thoughtful story.
I can't say that I've really read anything like it before. It's described as being ideal for fans of The End of the F***ing World and I think that is a good comparison as they are both quite unique in their delivery.
For me, it gets a massive thumbs up.
This is the story of Will.
A son, a brother, a grandson even. But beyond that, he is a young man trying to navigate his socially awkward self through some tough times.
The underlying subject of this tale is toxic masculinity.
And it is done so well.
It poses the question to the reader, can you even be a hero if no one actually knows about it?
Powerful.
Emotional.
Compelling.
This is a novel that for me, was completely unexpected.
I really enjoyed how the author explored everything. Dark at times, it was refreshing to read things from a male perspective. The peer pressure, the idea that you can't do the right thing for fear of being humiliated.
It sat on the edge of being both a YA and an adult novel with its subject matter.
Man Down is a thoughtful story.
I can't say that I've really read anything like it before. It's described as being ideal for fans of The End of the F***ing World and I think that is a good comparison as they are both quite unique in their delivery.
For me, it gets a massive thumbs up.
January 19, 2024
4,5
Is it what I wanted it to be? End like I hoped? Absolutely not but the craftsmanship is wonderful and the thoughtfulness and empathy shines through from our main character. From the writer too I believe.
This is the kind of book that leaves you with thoughts and feelings you normally would be able to shake off but now feel are more important to figure out, what makes life meaningful and why do we act the ways we do?
I felt hopeful, happy, sad and hopeless at times in this book and the multitude of the characters thought, feelings and actions make a stunning read.
Is it what I wanted it to be? End like I hoped? Absolutely not but the craftsmanship is wonderful and the thoughtfulness and empathy shines through from our main character. From the writer too I believe.
This is the kind of book that leaves you with thoughts and feelings you normally would be able to shake off but now feel are more important to figure out, what makes life meaningful and why do we act the ways we do?
I felt hopeful, happy, sad and hopeless at times in this book and the multitude of the characters thought, feelings and actions make a stunning read.
March 2, 2022
I was lucky enough to receive an advance copy of Man Down. The premise really intrigued me and didn't disappoint. I normally race through books but I found myself slowing down to read this one because it demanded close attention. Man Down is emotionally complex, dark and clever - a very unexpected, thoughtful and original book that interrogates toxic masculinity and what it means to be a hero through a speculative lens. It reminded me strongly of early Kevin Brooks, which is excellent. I'm still thinking about it a couple of months on, which doesn't often happen.
September 25, 2022
I read and reviewed this book for a blog tour, so thank you to the blog tour organiser for having me on this tour, and thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Trigger warnings: drug use, arson, violence, sex and attempted sex with a minor (on page and mentioned), attempted suicide (on page and flashbacks), homophobia, train crash.
Man Down by James Goodhand is a YA contemporary book that discusses growing up in a less than perfect town, insecurities, toxic masculinity, sexism and discovering your true self. As I just mentioned, this is not the kind of book I gravitate towards, but I wanted to give it a chance. While I don’t think I understood or enjoyed this book to its full potential because of my reading tastes, I do have to tell you that it is bloody well written and the end made me such a nervous wreck.
This book is set in Ebbswick, a back-water fairly deprived and poor town where Will is growing up. Will is our main character and I liked him from the first page because he is humble, honest, kind, caring and he isn’t all “Look at me, look at how manly I am”. That’s just not who he is. His brother, Danny, however, is totally “a man” with atrocious behaviour towards women and the majority of the time he thinks he is something special and wonderful where he just looks like a twit, pardon my French. I really don’t like characters like Danny’s, although I do have to admit that it was really well written. I can’t speak for all women reading this book, but all instances of toxic masculinity, be it from Danny, from Mick Touch, from Will’s father, and many more, just unnerved me and made me feel so ill-at-ease, so it was definitely written in a very realistic and almost scary way.
This is a more character-driven kind of book. Even though a lot of things happen over a long period of time, it doesn’t feel that long, and it doesn’t feel like that much happens just because there is such focus on Will, his character, his questions, his doubts, his growth. I liked reading about what goes through his head, but I also just wanted to hug him and tell him everything would be fine. He is a very loveable character and I definitely felt for him in his very hard moments.
I don’t want to spoil anyone, hence the short version of my review, but there was an instance in the book which kept repeating and which I did not understand until at least the 70% mark, and I have to say it was both weird and fascinating. I just wanted to know more. I would say there is a definite “supernatural” or “otherworldly” element to this story which I was really not expecting and which threw me a bit. I think it was really clever how the author wound this in with the book even though it did leave me confused for the majority of the story.
There is a kind of, if not oppressive, then very unnerving atmosphere throughout this book. We all know that something terrible is going to happen at the end, as proven by all the messages than Will gets through various other characters, and the bad things that do happen, but I did NOT expect that ending. For the last 20% of the book, I felt physically sick and so stressed because everything was coming to a head and it was chaos and I was just praying that Will and everyone else would be fine. The end is definitely what got the 4 stars from me because it was so well written and because of the reactions it got from me.
Overall, I did end up enjoying this book even though it took me quite a while to get into, to understand, to “properly” enjoy because I was a bit sceptical of the supernatural element of the story and just didn’t understand it. I think that was the author’s aim though, because I tell you, once you do understand and once everything kicks off, it is a fire-blazing race to the finish which just left me open-mouthed.
It was so, so well written. I don’t expect such beautiful prose and transitions in YA contemporary anymore, my bad, because this just knocked my socks off. James Goodhand has such a way with words and even though for 70% of the book I was not sure about it and my feelings towards it, he kept me reading, I just couldn’t stop.
I loved Will so much and it was so lovely seeing him grow and not “man up” but instead become himself, evolve and become the good and kind person he was meant to be from the start. I totally see why this book is called “Man Down” and think it was a very good title choice. His character breaks down the barriers of what a man should be, of what people see men as, be it how they behave or what they think. I think the way toxic masculinity was approached was so clever and realistic. I also have to mention Will’s Nain and Alfie, who were also characters I enjoyed reading about.
I gave this book 4 stars and even though I had my doubts about it, I did end up enjoying it and that ending was just terrifying, amazing, awful, so well-written, and just WOW. I still can’t quite wrap my head around it, but I think it does give me hope.
If you love the unusual YA contemporaries that have a bit of something extra, interesting and loveable characters, discussions on toxic masculinity, sexism, homophobia, insecurities and finding oneself, and if you love poignant, sensitive and beautiful writing, then Man Down by James Goodhand is definitely the book for you.
Trigger warnings: drug use, arson, violence, sex and attempted sex with a minor (on page and mentioned), attempted suicide (on page and flashbacks), homophobia, train crash.
Man Down by James Goodhand is a YA contemporary book that discusses growing up in a less than perfect town, insecurities, toxic masculinity, sexism and discovering your true self. As I just mentioned, this is not the kind of book I gravitate towards, but I wanted to give it a chance. While I don’t think I understood or enjoyed this book to its full potential because of my reading tastes, I do have to tell you that it is bloody well written and the end made me such a nervous wreck.
This book is set in Ebbswick, a back-water fairly deprived and poor town where Will is growing up. Will is our main character and I liked him from the first page because he is humble, honest, kind, caring and he isn’t all “Look at me, look at how manly I am”. That’s just not who he is. His brother, Danny, however, is totally “a man” with atrocious behaviour towards women and the majority of the time he thinks he is something special and wonderful where he just looks like a twit, pardon my French. I really don’t like characters like Danny’s, although I do have to admit that it was really well written. I can’t speak for all women reading this book, but all instances of toxic masculinity, be it from Danny, from Mick Touch, from Will’s father, and many more, just unnerved me and made me feel so ill-at-ease, so it was definitely written in a very realistic and almost scary way.
This is a more character-driven kind of book. Even though a lot of things happen over a long period of time, it doesn’t feel that long, and it doesn’t feel like that much happens just because there is such focus on Will, his character, his questions, his doubts, his growth. I liked reading about what goes through his head, but I also just wanted to hug him and tell him everything would be fine. He is a very loveable character and I definitely felt for him in his very hard moments.
I don’t want to spoil anyone, hence the short version of my review, but there was an instance in the book which kept repeating and which I did not understand until at least the 70% mark, and I have to say it was both weird and fascinating. I just wanted to know more. I would say there is a definite “supernatural” or “otherworldly” element to this story which I was really not expecting and which threw me a bit. I think it was really clever how the author wound this in with the book even though it did leave me confused for the majority of the story.
There is a kind of, if not oppressive, then very unnerving atmosphere throughout this book. We all know that something terrible is going to happen at the end, as proven by all the messages than Will gets through various other characters, and the bad things that do happen, but I did NOT expect that ending. For the last 20% of the book, I felt physically sick and so stressed because everything was coming to a head and it was chaos and I was just praying that Will and everyone else would be fine. The end is definitely what got the 4 stars from me because it was so well written and because of the reactions it got from me.
Overall, I did end up enjoying this book even though it took me quite a while to get into, to understand, to “properly” enjoy because I was a bit sceptical of the supernatural element of the story and just didn’t understand it. I think that was the author’s aim though, because I tell you, once you do understand and once everything kicks off, it is a fire-blazing race to the finish which just left me open-mouthed.
It was so, so well written. I don’t expect such beautiful prose and transitions in YA contemporary anymore, my bad, because this just knocked my socks off. James Goodhand has such a way with words and even though for 70% of the book I was not sure about it and my feelings towards it, he kept me reading, I just couldn’t stop.
I loved Will so much and it was so lovely seeing him grow and not “man up” but instead become himself, evolve and become the good and kind person he was meant to be from the start. I totally see why this book is called “Man Down” and think it was a very good title choice. His character breaks down the barriers of what a man should be, of what people see men as, be it how they behave or what they think. I think the way toxic masculinity was approached was so clever and realistic. I also have to mention Will’s Nain and Alfie, who were also characters I enjoyed reading about.
I gave this book 4 stars and even though I had my doubts about it, I did end up enjoying it and that ending was just terrifying, amazing, awful, so well-written, and just WOW. I still can’t quite wrap my head around it, but I think it does give me hope.
If you love the unusual YA contemporaries that have a bit of something extra, interesting and loveable characters, discussions on toxic masculinity, sexism, homophobia, insecurities and finding oneself, and if you love poignant, sensitive and beautiful writing, then Man Down by James Goodhand is definitely the book for you.
April 27, 2023
An interesting read that kept me gripped. Good mix of coming of age, tackling what it means to be a man, and thriller. Some nicely drawn out secondary characters too.
July 28, 2023
What I loved
This is truly an incredible, emotional and powerful book that unearths toxic masculinity and really tugs at the heart strings. I was so consumed by Will’s story that I genuinely didn’t want it to end. I didn’t expect this book to have such an effect but with its uneasy and unsettling moments there is still a beautiful atmosphere about Man Down that undeniably makes it one of a kind.
The Story
I did have a bit of a slow start with this book and it did take me a few chapters to really understand the concept of what is going on. However, I think this is partly my fault for trying to race ahead through the story which was a mistake. After I slowed down and gave it my undivided attention I couldn’t get enough and I was hanging on every word because I was so intrigued with the kind of psychological things that were happening.
I do like it when authors explore dark themes because I am captivated by the raw emotions that the characters feel and I I think they were written exceptionally well here. It really left an impact on me as a reader and it helped me actually understand how they may be feeling, especially Will. Just to warn you, there are a lot of dark themes in this book as themes such as suicide, drug addiction, and traumatic accidents are written about so it may not be for you if certain events like this are triggering for you.
The Characters
Will is an absolute darling and my heart breaks for him. I love his character and I really wanted him to thrive and not succumb to all the toxic masculinity that is around him. I really enjoyed seeing him become brave in his own way that made him comfortable but at the same time was still extremely helpful to those around him, he just needed a bit of guidance to get there.
All the other characters played an important part in this book and I found them all very realistic. There wasn’t a time when I didn’t want there to be another character there, apart from the side characters who have no consideration for anyone but themselves. But again, this just adds to the realism of the whole thing.
Overall Thoughts
Overall, Man Down is an extremely clever and powerful that will still leave you thinking about it constantly after you’ve read it. It was intense, shocking and full of drama that will make it impossible to put down. I must admit a few tears were leaked through reading and I would love to read it again but I don’t think it would have the same effect the second time around. Hopefully I am wrong though because I will be reading this again to see if there is anything I can pick up on that I may have missed in my first read.
Rating: 5/5
Thank you The Write Reads, the publisher and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review and a spot on the blog tour.
https://elliemaiblogs.co.uk/man-down-...
This is truly an incredible, emotional and powerful book that unearths toxic masculinity and really tugs at the heart strings. I was so consumed by Will’s story that I genuinely didn’t want it to end. I didn’t expect this book to have such an effect but with its uneasy and unsettling moments there is still a beautiful atmosphere about Man Down that undeniably makes it one of a kind.
The Story
I did have a bit of a slow start with this book and it did take me a few chapters to really understand the concept of what is going on. However, I think this is partly my fault for trying to race ahead through the story which was a mistake. After I slowed down and gave it my undivided attention I couldn’t get enough and I was hanging on every word because I was so intrigued with the kind of psychological things that were happening.
I do like it when authors explore dark themes because I am captivated by the raw emotions that the characters feel and I I think they were written exceptionally well here. It really left an impact on me as a reader and it helped me actually understand how they may be feeling, especially Will. Just to warn you, there are a lot of dark themes in this book as themes such as suicide, drug addiction, and traumatic accidents are written about so it may not be for you if certain events like this are triggering for you.
The Characters
Will is an absolute darling and my heart breaks for him. I love his character and I really wanted him to thrive and not succumb to all the toxic masculinity that is around him. I really enjoyed seeing him become brave in his own way that made him comfortable but at the same time was still extremely helpful to those around him, he just needed a bit of guidance to get there.
All the other characters played an important part in this book and I found them all very realistic. There wasn’t a time when I didn’t want there to be another character there, apart from the side characters who have no consideration for anyone but themselves. But again, this just adds to the realism of the whole thing.
Overall Thoughts
Overall, Man Down is an extremely clever and powerful that will still leave you thinking about it constantly after you’ve read it. It was intense, shocking and full of drama that will make it impossible to put down. I must admit a few tears were leaked through reading and I would love to read it again but I don’t think it would have the same effect the second time around. Hopefully I am wrong though because I will be reading this again to see if there is anything I can pick up on that I may have missed in my first read.
Rating: 5/5
Thank you The Write Reads, the publisher and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review and a spot on the blog tour.
https://elliemaiblogs.co.uk/man-down-...
June 13, 2022
It starts with:
Will Parks is no longer alone.
This is the precise instant it beings. He is being watched. Followed. Everywhere.
I have to show that because it's important. If you've read the book, you already know why. If not, you're going to be on one heck of a ride.
When I first read those lines, I wasn't sure if this was a ghost story or something more sinister, like having a creepy stalker. I didn't get the Goodreads blurb (the one I pasted up above) but rather the Amazon one, which goes a little differently:
Will Parks needs to man up.
A man stands. A man fights. A man bleeds.
These are the first lessons you learn in a town where girls are objects, words are weak and fists do the talking.
Will's more at home in the classroom than the gym, and the most important woman in his life is his gran. So how can a boy who's always backed away from a fight become the hero who saves the day?
Because a disaster is coming. One that Will can prevent. But only if he learns the most important lesson of all: sometimes to step up, you have to man down.
Okay, sure, it works and it's true to a point, because this is a story about toxic masculinity. But I'd have been more enthusiastic with the promise of the supernatural and glimpses of the future, because I also happen to love time travel and fate/destiny stuff. Even without that, though, I kept going. The premise was interesting and I couldn't find it in me to put the book down.
Eventually, we find out that there is a ghost. Of sorts. We just don't know who it is, and I certainly kept guessing until the end. And the end, by the way, is simply brilliant. The author practically yanked the floor from under my feet and left me lying on my back and staring at the stars in awe. Because I literally cheered. Or, more accurately, I took my elation to Twitter and capslocked at Mr. Goodman.
I loved it that much, okay. The payoff at the end was so worth it.
The story showed a multilayered perspective of things and had complex, real characters. The protagonist, Will, is thrust into situations where he's "left without a choice," but it's written thoughtfully that he doesn't become a character who simply reacts to things. You can see his growth for yourself throughout the story, as well as the development of the key people around him.
Overall, it was a great read. And, again, props to the storytelling. THAT ENDING, and how everything led us to that moment. *chef's kiss*
I also learned British slang and stuff from the story, which was validated as I settled into my new country. That was unexpectedly helpful, in a way!
Recommended Listening: Ghost by Joshua Wicker
Will Parks is no longer alone.
This is the precise instant it beings. He is being watched. Followed. Everywhere.
I have to show that because it's important. If you've read the book, you already know why. If not, you're going to be on one heck of a ride.
When I first read those lines, I wasn't sure if this was a ghost story or something more sinister, like having a creepy stalker. I didn't get the Goodreads blurb (the one I pasted up above) but rather the Amazon one, which goes a little differently:
Will Parks needs to man up.
A man stands. A man fights. A man bleeds.
These are the first lessons you learn in a town where girls are objects, words are weak and fists do the talking.
Will's more at home in the classroom than the gym, and the most important woman in his life is his gran. So how can a boy who's always backed away from a fight become the hero who saves the day?
Because a disaster is coming. One that Will can prevent. But only if he learns the most important lesson of all: sometimes to step up, you have to man down.
Okay, sure, it works and it's true to a point, because this is a story about toxic masculinity. But I'd have been more enthusiastic with the promise of the supernatural and glimpses of the future, because I also happen to love time travel and fate/destiny stuff. Even without that, though, I kept going. The premise was interesting and I couldn't find it in me to put the book down.
Eventually, we find out that there is a ghost. Of sorts. We just don't know who it is, and I certainly kept guessing until the end. And the end, by the way, is simply brilliant. The author practically yanked the floor from under my feet and left me lying on my back and staring at the stars in awe. Because I literally cheered. Or, more accurately, I took my elation to Twitter and capslocked at Mr. Goodman.
I loved it that much, okay. The payoff at the end was so worth it.
The story showed a multilayered perspective of things and had complex, real characters. The protagonist, Will, is thrust into situations where he's "left without a choice," but it's written thoughtfully that he doesn't become a character who simply reacts to things. You can see his growth for yourself throughout the story, as well as the development of the key people around him.
Overall, it was a great read. And, again, props to the storytelling. THAT ENDING, and how everything led us to that moment. *chef's kiss*
I also learned British slang and stuff from the story, which was validated as I settled into my new country. That was unexpectedly helpful, in a way!
Recommended Listening: Ghost by Joshua Wicker
July 3, 2022
What a wonderful read!
I loved how it challenged toxic masculinity, especially the way it is experienced by teenage males from their peers and family. There were some strange supernatural themes which I really enjoyed, and the little twist was fantastically done.
I'd definitely recommend this!
Many thanks to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for sending me a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I loved how it challenged toxic masculinity, especially the way it is experienced by teenage males from their peers and family. There were some strange supernatural themes which I really enjoyed, and the little twist was fantastically done.
I'd definitely recommend this!
Many thanks to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for sending me a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
March 8, 2023
Man Down by James Goodhand
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10
Genre: Contemporary young adult fiction
Tropes: Unlikely hero
Content Warning: Sexual harassment, sexual assault, sexism, misogyny, homophobia, toxic masculinity, drug addiction, cancer, suicidal thoughts, suicide, body horror, gore, death, general violence
Page Count: 381
POV: Third and second-person
First Line:
"Will Parks is no longer alone."
Favorite Quote:
"Life, Will realizes, is made up of the people who do whatever the hell they like, and the people who hold everything together so that they can."
-
"In this instant, with nothing left to lose, he forgets to censor himself. He forgets to find his own feelings ridiculous. He forgets to be an actor. He is, instead, accidentally real."
Summary:
"A man stands. A man fights. A man bleeds. [...] These are the first lessons you learn in a town where girls are objects, words are weak and fists do the talking. [...] So how can a boy who's always backed away from a fight become the hero who saves the day? [...] Because a disaster is coming. One that Will can prevent. But only if he learns the most important lesson of all: sometimes to step up, you have to man down." (Amazon)
Review:
I special ordered this book since it's not sold in the US and have physically had it for months now. WHY DID I WAIT SO LONG?
This book is all about toxic masculinity, what it means to be a man in modern society, and the bravery it takes to question the norm.
Know that there are many dark scenes in here, including an on-page suicide attempt and multiple on-page sexual assaults. Read the trigger warning.
I LOVED this. It's not beautiful, but rather stark and honest. It's highly uncomfortable at times, and that's the point. And oh my god, the ending. I'm still not over it and I'll probably be thinking about it for a very long time.
If you're interested in the topic of toxic masculinity and the social messages sent to boys and men, I'd recommend the documentary The Mask You Live In. And of course, this book. I'd give it a thousand stars, if I could.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10
Genre: Contemporary young adult fiction
Tropes: Unlikely hero
Content Warning: Sexual harassment, sexual assault, sexism, misogyny, homophobia, toxic masculinity, drug addiction, cancer, suicidal thoughts, suicide, body horror, gore, death, general violence
Page Count: 381
POV: Third and second-person
First Line:
"Will Parks is no longer alone."
Favorite Quote:
"Life, Will realizes, is made up of the people who do whatever the hell they like, and the people who hold everything together so that they can."
-
"In this instant, with nothing left to lose, he forgets to censor himself. He forgets to find his own feelings ridiculous. He forgets to be an actor. He is, instead, accidentally real."
Summary:
"A man stands. A man fights. A man bleeds. [...] These are the first lessons you learn in a town where girls are objects, words are weak and fists do the talking. [...] So how can a boy who's always backed away from a fight become the hero who saves the day? [...] Because a disaster is coming. One that Will can prevent. But only if he learns the most important lesson of all: sometimes to step up, you have to man down." (Amazon)
Review:
I special ordered this book since it's not sold in the US and have physically had it for months now. WHY DID I WAIT SO LONG?
This book is all about toxic masculinity, what it means to be a man in modern society, and the bravery it takes to question the norm.
Know that there are many dark scenes in here, including an on-page suicide attempt and multiple on-page sexual assaults. Read the trigger warning.
I LOVED this. It's not beautiful, but rather stark and honest. It's highly uncomfortable at times, and that's the point. And oh my god, the ending. I'm still not over it and I'll probably be thinking about it for a very long time.
If you're interested in the topic of toxic masculinity and the social messages sent to boys and men, I'd recommend the documentary The Mask You Live In. And of course, this book. I'd give it a thousand stars, if I could.
May 9, 2023
This book really takes you on an emotional ride. At times I laughed, at times I almost cried and at times I found myself really reflecting on my late teens in so many different ways. As someone who like Will struggled with confidence and came from a split home this really resonated and brought back a lot of unresolved feelings but also some great memories. It’s a really touching novel about overcoming what people expect you to be and becoming the “man” that feels right to you. I really enjoyed reading this and hope that I’ve learnt somethings about myself that I was still to figure out.
December 7, 2025
Man Down explores themes like toxic masculinity and patriarchy, showing the impact these issues have on teenagers' mental health. James Goodhand does a fantastic job portraying a young woman's empowerment and her ability to stand up for herself, which is especially notable coming from a male author. I particularly liked the thought-provoking question: if you save people without anyone knowing, are you still a hero? The story was so compelling that it made me want to keep reading, eager to see what happens next. I recommend it to anyone looking for a powerful YA novel.
July 9, 2022
James Goodhand has done it again with Man Down. He's created a wonderful novel full of depth, that draws you in and makes you feel like you are there watching the story unfold in person. This is an intricately crafted story with many layers that focuses on some very important subjects such as mental health and toxic masculinity. As you read you feel so many emotions for the main protagonist Will. And the ending will have your jaw-dropping. Absolutely wonderful read.
June 6, 2022
Man Down is truly special. A love letter to youth, life, love and hope, it's utterly compelling, completely original and will undoubtedly be one of the standout books of 2022. An absolute must read.
April 23, 2022
When this tour was announced, I was immediately intrigued by Man Down, and really wanted to find out where this book would go. It certainly wasn’t what I was expecting it to be, but that’s not exactly a bad thing.
Will Parks is a quiet, shy, and clearly very awkward teenager. He has no idea how to make friends, and certainly no idea how to talk to girls, but he’s sweet, caring, and respectful. He is the polar opposite of his brother Danny, who is over confident, cocky, and considers himself to be something of a lady’s man. In reality, Danny’s behaviour towards woman is rather disgusting. Actually his entire personality is disgusting, not just the way he is towards women, and instead of making fun of Will, he should be taking notes on how to behave more appropriately. But Danny isn’t the worst of it, there are multiple toxic male characters in Will’s life, including Danny, their father (who is clearly where Danny got his behaviour from), and Will’s boss Mick, and they all think that Will isn’t “man” enough.
The author did a brilliant job of writing this book. As a woman, the level of toxic masculinity at times made me feel quite uncomfortable, but that’s exactly what it should do. It SHOULD be real enough to feel it, and it was incredibly accurate in how it was written.
It took me a little while to get in to this book, it just didn’t grab me straight away and I was unsure how I felt about it for some time, but once the story picked up, I really got in to it. There were some very unusual aspects to this story, with a kind of supernatural element to it that I wasn’t expecting at all. This added a whole new layer to the story, which I really enjoyed. I think this is what really got me hooked, and once I was hooked I couldn’t stop reading.
In regards to the characters, of course I liked Will, and hated Danny, their father, and Mick. But my favourite character was definitely Alfie! Alfie was dealt a really rough hand, and was struggling, but he always put other people before himself. He was still the life of the party, the fun, happy one, and he was just a joy to read. I felt incredibly sorry for April from the very beginning, she was a victim in so many ways, and it was so sad to read. One of my favourite things about this book was Will’s relationship with his Nain (nan), because it was just so pure and beautiful. She was quite clearly the most important part of Will’s family to him, and her love and support for him did not waver. Their relationship was also an integral part of the story.
This book focuses on some very important subjects. As well as the toxic masculinity, it also talks about mental health struggles, and this aspect hit me quite hard. The author did an excellent job of showing how people will hide their struggles and try to deal with them alone, instead of speaking out, and I think that this is even more common within male mental health. A lot of men seem to think that people will consider them “weak” if they admit that they are struggling, or they think they’ll be told to “man up”, and this is where toxic masculinity and mental health issues link together in such a dangerous way. It is not weak to admit you need help, it actually takes a huge amount of strength to open up in that way, and this needs to be spoken about more.
Man Down is one of those stories that starts as a slow burn, and gradually increases in intensity throughout the book, coming together in an explosive and totally unexpected ending. Honestly, the ending blew my mind, I’m still in shock! It was extremely clever, and it definitely makes you think. For me, the ending actually made the book. In a way, it made me think of Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk, not because it was similar in any way (because it wasn’t) but because of how the ending completely changes your perspective of everything you’ve already read up to that point, and I absolutely loved this about it.
Despite struggling to get in to it initially, I ended up really enjoying this book, and I’m still thinking about that ending now. This was unlike anything I’ve read before, and I look forward to seeing what else the author has in store for us in the future.
I give Man Down a 4 star rating!
Will Parks is a quiet, shy, and clearly very awkward teenager. He has no idea how to make friends, and certainly no idea how to talk to girls, but he’s sweet, caring, and respectful. He is the polar opposite of his brother Danny, who is over confident, cocky, and considers himself to be something of a lady’s man. In reality, Danny’s behaviour towards woman is rather disgusting. Actually his entire personality is disgusting, not just the way he is towards women, and instead of making fun of Will, he should be taking notes on how to behave more appropriately. But Danny isn’t the worst of it, there are multiple toxic male characters in Will’s life, including Danny, their father (who is clearly where Danny got his behaviour from), and Will’s boss Mick, and they all think that Will isn’t “man” enough.
The author did a brilliant job of writing this book. As a woman, the level of toxic masculinity at times made me feel quite uncomfortable, but that’s exactly what it should do. It SHOULD be real enough to feel it, and it was incredibly accurate in how it was written.
It took me a little while to get in to this book, it just didn’t grab me straight away and I was unsure how I felt about it for some time, but once the story picked up, I really got in to it. There were some very unusual aspects to this story, with a kind of supernatural element to it that I wasn’t expecting at all. This added a whole new layer to the story, which I really enjoyed. I think this is what really got me hooked, and once I was hooked I couldn’t stop reading.
In regards to the characters, of course I liked Will, and hated Danny, their father, and Mick. But my favourite character was definitely Alfie! Alfie was dealt a really rough hand, and was struggling, but he always put other people before himself. He was still the life of the party, the fun, happy one, and he was just a joy to read. I felt incredibly sorry for April from the very beginning, she was a victim in so many ways, and it was so sad to read. One of my favourite things about this book was Will’s relationship with his Nain (nan), because it was just so pure and beautiful. She was quite clearly the most important part of Will’s family to him, and her love and support for him did not waver. Their relationship was also an integral part of the story.
This book focuses on some very important subjects. As well as the toxic masculinity, it also talks about mental health struggles, and this aspect hit me quite hard. The author did an excellent job of showing how people will hide their struggles and try to deal with them alone, instead of speaking out, and I think that this is even more common within male mental health. A lot of men seem to think that people will consider them “weak” if they admit that they are struggling, or they think they’ll be told to “man up”, and this is where toxic masculinity and mental health issues link together in such a dangerous way. It is not weak to admit you need help, it actually takes a huge amount of strength to open up in that way, and this needs to be spoken about more.
Man Down is one of those stories that starts as a slow burn, and gradually increases in intensity throughout the book, coming together in an explosive and totally unexpected ending. Honestly, the ending blew my mind, I’m still in shock! It was extremely clever, and it definitely makes you think. For me, the ending actually made the book. In a way, it made me think of Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk, not because it was similar in any way (because it wasn’t) but because of how the ending completely changes your perspective of everything you’ve already read up to that point, and I absolutely loved this about it.
Despite struggling to get in to it initially, I ended up really enjoying this book, and I’m still thinking about that ending now. This was unlike anything I’ve read before, and I look forward to seeing what else the author has in store for us in the future.
I give Man Down a 4 star rating!
November 27, 2022
After reading a quick description of Man Down when a book tour was announced by @The_WriteReads/@WriteReadsTours I was definitely intrigued. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to read this one in time for the tour but I have since read it and here are my thoughts.
Man Down was definitely not what I was expecting, and honestly, I struggled with this one to start with. I was rather confused as to where it was going and also found the narrative confusing but I was determined to get to the end and I was so glad as the story really picked up and by about the 70% mark it really took off.
Although I struggled with the story at the start I liked the variety of characters. Will, the main character is a character than you can really see grow as the story unfolds. At the start of the book he starts off a shy and quiet character, who is always doubting himself but as the story unfolds you can see both his confidence and personality grow. I absolutely loved the relationship between Will and his Nain (Grandmother), it was just adorable and made my heart melt. Another favourite character of mine was Alfie. Alfie is the total opposite of Will. His confident and always up for a laugh. But behind closed doors his a troubled young boy struggling with mental health issues, while trying to keep up with school work and keeping his family fed. One character I wasn’t sure about was April. I really didn’t know what to make of her. The character’s that I found unlikeable from the start were Danny (Will’s brother) and his dad. They were just twats. But after finishing the book I can see they were intentionally made to be unlikeable.
Man Down may have started off slow and confusing but it does pick up and come together nicely with an ending that I wasn’t expecting at all. It totally shook my mind. It’s cleverly done and honestly if it wasn’t for the ending this would have been just an ok read.
If you’re looking for an unexpected and original read then this is definitely a book to give a go!!
Please check out the trigger warnings at BookTriggerWarnings.com before picking up this book as there are topics within the book that readers may find triggering.
Man Down was definitely not what I was expecting, and honestly, I struggled with this one to start with. I was rather confused as to where it was going and also found the narrative confusing but I was determined to get to the end and I was so glad as the story really picked up and by about the 70% mark it really took off.
Although I struggled with the story at the start I liked the variety of characters. Will, the main character is a character than you can really see grow as the story unfolds. At the start of the book he starts off a shy and quiet character, who is always doubting himself but as the story unfolds you can see both his confidence and personality grow. I absolutely loved the relationship between Will and his Nain (Grandmother), it was just adorable and made my heart melt. Another favourite character of mine was Alfie. Alfie is the total opposite of Will. His confident and always up for a laugh. But behind closed doors his a troubled young boy struggling with mental health issues, while trying to keep up with school work and keeping his family fed. One character I wasn’t sure about was April. I really didn’t know what to make of her. The character’s that I found unlikeable from the start were Danny (Will’s brother) and his dad. They were just twats. But after finishing the book I can see they were intentionally made to be unlikeable.
Man Down may have started off slow and confusing but it does pick up and come together nicely with an ending that I wasn’t expecting at all. It totally shook my mind. It’s cleverly done and honestly if it wasn’t for the ending this would have been just an ok read.
If you’re looking for an unexpected and original read then this is definitely a book to give a go!!
Please check out the trigger warnings at BookTriggerWarnings.com before picking up this book as there are topics within the book that readers may find triggering.
April 23, 2022
Man down was one of those books where I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first started reading. Man Down is a novel that brings so many current issues into the light, with a strong focus on men, teens and mental health/societal expectations. It makes uncomfortable reading at times and forces the reader to do some real introspection and thinking about their own thought processes.
Will lives in a town that represents many towns in the UK currently. Poverty is commonplace and people seem to hold some really toxic and old fashioned views. Despite being a fictional place (I think), it’s very real.
The main protagonist Will is a gentle, kind and hardworking young man. This is shown through his thoughts, and the way he treats others – including his lovely gran. His brother Danny is the complete opposite – despicable and really got under my skin. I think it takes talent to write lovely sweet characters that people love, but immense talent to write a bad guy who makes your skin crawl with how awful they can be. There is also the thought to be had around upbringing and environment and its impact of development and personality and the question is Danny to solely blame for himself is an important one (in my head anyway).
James Goodhand navigates the general world of teen angst really well, drawing attention to homophobia, toxic masculinity and societal expectations based around gender and he does it so well. I’d love to think that there are teens out there reading this and fully identifying with will’s experiences. And also teens reading this and realising they maybe need to change how they think and speak a little bit to their peers.
On top of the usual teen angst, Will is also seeing glimpses into the future and is being pulled towards a certain path – leading him to make a choice and discover what a true hero really is.
This is such an emotional book, dark in places and not always comfortable reading but so well written and certainly highlights things that need to said to everyone.
Will lives in a town that represents many towns in the UK currently. Poverty is commonplace and people seem to hold some really toxic and old fashioned views. Despite being a fictional place (I think), it’s very real.
The main protagonist Will is a gentle, kind and hardworking young man. This is shown through his thoughts, and the way he treats others – including his lovely gran. His brother Danny is the complete opposite – despicable and really got under my skin. I think it takes talent to write lovely sweet characters that people love, but immense talent to write a bad guy who makes your skin crawl with how awful they can be. There is also the thought to be had around upbringing and environment and its impact of development and personality and the question is Danny to solely blame for himself is an important one (in my head anyway).
James Goodhand navigates the general world of teen angst really well, drawing attention to homophobia, toxic masculinity and societal expectations based around gender and he does it so well. I’d love to think that there are teens out there reading this and fully identifying with will’s experiences. And also teens reading this and realising they maybe need to change how they think and speak a little bit to their peers.
On top of the usual teen angst, Will is also seeing glimpses into the future and is being pulled towards a certain path – leading him to make a choice and discover what a true hero really is.
This is such an emotional book, dark in places and not always comfortable reading but so well written and certainly highlights things that need to said to everyone.
May 12, 2022
One thing that you can wholeheartedly say about this book is that it is truly unique. It is out there to make a point and a very relevant one at that, as a powerful story is interspersed with sensitive themes and thought-provoking supernatural elements which help to set it apart, yet will also split opinion. As such, certain parts are highly commendable while others are objectionable.
The messaging throughout is unsubtle in the extreme but it certainly gets its point across, exploring the topic of toxic masculinity in a variety of different guises. It does so quite skilfully at times, though not without making it a really unsettling read. Indeed, the list of content warnings is extensive to say the least and impact my enjoyment of the book, as well as spark disbelief that it is marketed as young adult.
Will is the protagonist and he struggles with society's expectations of what it means to 'be a man', possessing a very different personality to his brother Danny, who is all bravado and basically treats women like objects. There are some things about Will and the way he thinks that will be relatable to many readers, especially the way he approaches certain conversations and scenarios.
His heart is in the right place and we see that as surprising incidents take place over the course of the story, although it must be said that he is not always likeable either. By far the most interesting aspects of the plot were his on/off romance with April, a complex and similarly flawed character, and his friendship with Alfie that leaves quite an emotional impact.
Other than that, some parts of the story were either abstract or underwhelming, so I occasionally resorted to skim reading. It ventures deep into philosophical discussions while the supernatural elements provide an air of unpredictability where you know something is going to happen, but you never really know what that might be. The biggest case in point is the ending, which turns much of Will's journey on its head.
Overall, whether you enjoy this book depends almost entirely on whether you connect with Will as a character and appreciate the edginess of the writing. It deserves a lot of praise for tackling a vitally important societal issue with such a degree of thought and originality, but some things about it were just a bit too heavy and so it left me with decidedly conflicting feelings.
The messaging throughout is unsubtle in the extreme but it certainly gets its point across, exploring the topic of toxic masculinity in a variety of different guises. It does so quite skilfully at times, though not without making it a really unsettling read. Indeed, the list of content warnings is extensive to say the least and impact my enjoyment of the book, as well as spark disbelief that it is marketed as young adult.
Will is the protagonist and he struggles with society's expectations of what it means to 'be a man', possessing a very different personality to his brother Danny, who is all bravado and basically treats women like objects. There are some things about Will and the way he thinks that will be relatable to many readers, especially the way he approaches certain conversations and scenarios.
His heart is in the right place and we see that as surprising incidents take place over the course of the story, although it must be said that he is not always likeable either. By far the most interesting aspects of the plot were his on/off romance with April, a complex and similarly flawed character, and his friendship with Alfie that leaves quite an emotional impact.
Other than that, some parts of the story were either abstract or underwhelming, so I occasionally resorted to skim reading. It ventures deep into philosophical discussions while the supernatural elements provide an air of unpredictability where you know something is going to happen, but you never really know what that might be. The biggest case in point is the ending, which turns much of Will's journey on its head.
Overall, whether you enjoy this book depends almost entirely on whether you connect with Will as a character and appreciate the edginess of the writing. It deserves a lot of praise for tackling a vitally important societal issue with such a degree of thought and originality, but some things about it were just a bit too heavy and so it left me with decidedly conflicting feelings.
April 9, 2022
I’m not sure I really know what I thought of this book. Where it’s sometimes easy to compress your thoughts into a review, I cannot for this one. I feel like I’m still processing the end.
It was a surprisingly philosophical book - I was kind of just expecting a contemporary with a supernatural twist. Instead, it made my brain work a lot. Will has a lot of deep conversations with those around him that come to bear importance in this life, and it’s rewarding to see how the results of these conversations play in his life.
Will was an interesting main character. As he reflects on what he’s been told it means to “be a man”, we get to see what he does to “man up”. I like that he explored this in his own way. He didn’t become brutish and intimidating, picking every fight he could find, he just became brave enough to fight for the things he believed in. I really enjoyed seeing the friendship he built with Alfie, where both could be honest and vulnerable.
“Will Parks is no longer alone. This is the precise instant it begins. He is being watched. Followed. Everywhere. And he won’t be alone again until The End.”
CW: Elderly grandparent, homophobia, sex with a minor (mentioned), attempted sex with a minor (on page), suicide (on page), attempted suicide (on page), suicidal thoughts, train accident, drug use, drug addiction, fire/arson, divorce
It was a difficult book to read in terms of trigger warnings. There were a lot. I’ve tried to list them all above, but please feel free to message me if you have more questions.
The end felt… not dramatic, but maybe shocking? I’m not sure how to describe it. It really ramped the stakes up and you could feel time racing against Will. I don’t think I expected what happened to happen, nor for the supernatural presence to be what it was, but it kind of makes you look back on the rest of the book with different eyes.
It was a surprisingly philosophical book - I was kind of just expecting a contemporary with a supernatural twist. Instead, it made my brain work a lot. Will has a lot of deep conversations with those around him that come to bear importance in this life, and it’s rewarding to see how the results of these conversations play in his life.
Will was an interesting main character. As he reflects on what he’s been told it means to “be a man”, we get to see what he does to “man up”. I like that he explored this in his own way. He didn’t become brutish and intimidating, picking every fight he could find, he just became brave enough to fight for the things he believed in. I really enjoyed seeing the friendship he built with Alfie, where both could be honest and vulnerable.
“Will Parks is no longer alone. This is the precise instant it begins. He is being watched. Followed. Everywhere. And he won’t be alone again until The End.”
CW: Elderly grandparent, homophobia, sex with a minor (mentioned), attempted sex with a minor (on page), suicide (on page), attempted suicide (on page), suicidal thoughts, train accident, drug use, drug addiction, fire/arson, divorce
It was a difficult book to read in terms of trigger warnings. There were a lot. I’ve tried to list them all above, but please feel free to message me if you have more questions.
The end felt… not dramatic, but maybe shocking? I’m not sure how to describe it. It really ramped the stakes up and you could feel time racing against Will. I don’t think I expected what happened to happen, nor for the supernatural presence to be what it was, but it kind of makes you look back on the rest of the book with different eyes.
April 14, 2022
Thank you The Write Reads for the chance to be on the book tour for Man Down by James Goodhand.
Man Down is a young adult book that came out this year. It was published by Penguin, and despite the paperback being 400 pages, Man Down is a very quick read.
I’m struggling to write a review that doesn’t contain too many spoilers, so if you want to avoid any chance of those I recommend you just read the blurb and buy the book! I’m leaving it a solid 4 stars!
Will Parks, our main character is getting really odd messages. The messages help his friends and family avoid some really catastrophic situations; although it’s the messages that help him get friends in the first place.
Will was an odd main, I rarely remember reading about a character who was this non-confrontational. I also had to remind myself to not judge him at a point; after all he is a child. I shouldn’t sit there and think that as a dude he needs to be more aggressive, when I know I’m still not expected to be.
But I also loved how the messages helped him grow a bit and come into his own. Will is shown to be a talented, likable person, who struggled and got caught up in his own head with people around him who were so much more out there. Will is able to save that girl, which had nothing to do with the messages, but a lot to do with his quick thinking.
I didn’t see the twist of who the messages were coming from until close to the end, and even then I wasn’t a hundred percent sure, which I liked. I also love that he does get a chance to do it all over.
If Will was real, I’d like to tell him I’m rooting for him.
Man Down is a young adult book that came out this year. It was published by Penguin, and despite the paperback being 400 pages, Man Down is a very quick read.
I’m struggling to write a review that doesn’t contain too many spoilers, so if you want to avoid any chance of those I recommend you just read the blurb and buy the book! I’m leaving it a solid 4 stars!
Will Parks, our main character is getting really odd messages. The messages help his friends and family avoid some really catastrophic situations; although it’s the messages that help him get friends in the first place.
Will was an odd main, I rarely remember reading about a character who was this non-confrontational. I also had to remind myself to not judge him at a point; after all he is a child. I shouldn’t sit there and think that as a dude he needs to be more aggressive, when I know I’m still not expected to be.
But I also loved how the messages helped him grow a bit and come into his own. Will is shown to be a talented, likable person, who struggled and got caught up in his own head with people around him who were so much more out there. Will is able to save that girl, which had nothing to do with the messages, but a lot to do with his quick thinking.
I didn’t see the twist of who the messages were coming from until close to the end, and even then I wasn’t a hundred percent sure, which I liked. I also love that he does get a chance to do it all over.
If Will was real, I’d like to tell him I’m rooting for him.
April 5, 2022
YA fiction is one of my secret vices and I enjoyed this on the whole. I liked the premise (even if it is not quite clear what that premise is at first) - let's just say someone or something with inside knowledge is helping the central character to intervene in situations where something needs to be done to stop things from going seriously wrong. I even liked the ending despite it being one of the hardest and saddest decisions a person could ever have to make. What I didn't like quite so much was that the hero Will is a type of character who seems to pop up a lot more in YA than in real life - the outsider with limited social skills who only has to meet the right person or people, or go through the right adventure, to have a massive surge in confidence and popularity. In my experience it doesn't happen like that in real life. I was one of those teenage oddballs and I'm not sure whether reading a book like this would have cheered me up, or just frustrated me because it felt so unrealistic. But if this book encourages anyone to think about how they treat the oddballs in their life, or about how they (if male) treat women or (if female) accept being treated, then perhaps it will have done some good in the world.
March 1, 2023
A heavy read about a young man from a family and small English community that is immersed in toxic masculinity. Will, the main character is not typically this - he is not sporty, macho, and girls kind of scare him. His grandmother is significant in his life and is creative like Will is. He regularly spends time with her and this continues when she is hospitalised. Will becomes aware of a presence that guides him. The presence leads him to do things he wouldn’t usually (e.g. talking to others he wouldn’t usually, helping others in ways he wouldn’t usually). As his confidence grows, he makes new friends and get a girlfriend but something isn't right and he needs to figure out what.
This story is full of huge character development. A strong lead male character who questions are you hero if no one sees what you do? What is a man?
Loved that the last sentence, is the first sentence - full circle.
This story is full of huge character development. A strong lead male character who questions are you hero if no one sees what you do? What is a man?
Loved that the last sentence, is the first sentence - full circle.
April 25, 2022
Full review on my blog.
For a list of warnings, tropes, and representation for this book, check out its page on BookTriggerWarnings.com.
I wasn’t quite sure what I was getting myself into when I started reading this book. It is written like a thriller, but also has elements of magical realism and even science fiction. My experience reading Man Down reminded me a lot of how I felt reading Fight Club. It was this strange sense of foreboding mixed with outright confusion about what exactly was going on.
A good portion of the novel is social commentary, particularly about toxic masculinity and sexism. Our main character, Will Parks, is by all means not a “manly” man. He has social anxiety, cries and apologizes constantly, and doesn’t quite know how to fight or stand up for himself and others. Throughout the novel, Will is is forced to confront the sexist and misogynistic world that we live in, whether it be the way men put on macho facades when around other people, or the way society victim blames and slut-shames women for crimes committed against them.
Man Down is an incredibly thought-provoking novel that is sure to illicit emotional reactions from its readers. Definitely heed the trigger and content warnings if you’re interested in trying this one out.
For a list of warnings, tropes, and representation for this book, check out its page on BookTriggerWarnings.com.
I wasn’t quite sure what I was getting myself into when I started reading this book. It is written like a thriller, but also has elements of magical realism and even science fiction. My experience reading Man Down reminded me a lot of how I felt reading Fight Club. It was this strange sense of foreboding mixed with outright confusion about what exactly was going on.
A good portion of the novel is social commentary, particularly about toxic masculinity and sexism. Our main character, Will Parks, is by all means not a “manly” man. He has social anxiety, cries and apologizes constantly, and doesn’t quite know how to fight or stand up for himself and others. Throughout the novel, Will is is forced to confront the sexist and misogynistic world that we live in, whether it be the way men put on macho facades when around other people, or the way society victim blames and slut-shames women for crimes committed against them.
Man Down is an incredibly thought-provoking novel that is sure to illicit emotional reactions from its readers. Definitely heed the trigger and content warnings if you’re interested in trying this one out.
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