BOYS WILL BE
by Bruce Brooks
A former boy, and now father of two more, offers some quirky essays on the inner life of the young American male, explaining why so many of them talk trash to one another, wear sports caps every waking moment, and seem unconcerned—at a certain stage—with masking body odor. Addressing both adults and young people, he assures the former that boys do read books (though they may not advertise the fact), and advises the latter on coping with a dangerous friend. As in his fiction, Brooks shows uncommon insight into what real courage, heroism, and maturity are, with tributes to Arthur Ashe and Bobby Knight; he's also entertaining, dishing up a hilarious tirade against football (``Eight Reasons Why Ice Hockey Kicks Football's Tutu'') and several outrageously sexist comments (e.g., ``Ten Things You Cannot Expect Your Mom to Come Close to Understanding''). When it comes to bullies (``They suck''), though, Brooks loses his sense of humor momentarily and offers some risky advice: ``What to do about bullies: Punch them in the nose. That's the only thing that always works for me.'' A final essay on respect caps off—without quite drawing together—this funny, thoughtful miscellany. (Nonfiction. 11+)