Boy Dad
By Diondra Brown,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Beautiful celebration of Black fatherhood and Black sons.
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What's the Story?
BOY DAD celebrates father-son relationships. The book shares how fathers help create the foundation for their sons' understanding of honesty, respect, style, and fun. This unique bond shows up on the sports field, during bedtime, at school, and in the park. The narrator says, "Father and son. Dad and lad. It's a bond like no other." This is seen in the book as the sons show adoration for their fathers, who aren't afraid to express their silly side and also encourage their sons to show their emotions. From fishing and building to cooking dinner and preparing for picture day, the strong boy dads are always there. Life with their son is the best life.
Is It Any Good?
This book is enjoyable, heartwarming, and fun. Boy Dad truly celebrates the special connection that a father shares with his son. The characters in the book are all Black, challenging stereotypes about absent fathers or fathers who don't encourage vulnerably sharing your emotions. The book's soft images bring a sense of warmth to the pages, and the author's upbeat rhymes are sure to capture the attention of young readers. Boy Dad recognizes the value of engaged, loving fathers.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how, in Boy Dad, the fathers shown are positive role models. How do they help their sons learn to be kind and strong?
What activities from the book do you enjoy doing? What activities from the book do you not enjoy doing? Why?
Not everyone has a father. What are some things you can learn from an adult who loves you?
Book Details
- Author: Sean Williams
- Illustrator: Jay Davis
- Genre: Picture Book
- Topics: Great Boy Role Models
- Character Strengths: Communication , Empathy
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
- Publication date: May 16, 2023
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 4 - 8
- Number of pages: 40
- Available on: Hardback
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: June 12, 2023
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