Reviewed by Rama Gaind.
By Rob Sturrock, Allen & Unwin, $29.99.
“This book was forged in the fires of early fatherhood.” Sturrock’s opening statement in the prologue, comes after he dedicates this book to Julia, Aila and Luke, the “three loves of my life” as he recounts a revolutionary approach for fathers who want to raise kind, confident and happy sons.
It was as Rob became immersed in “our new life of being parents” that he realised there was not only so little written about dads, there was even less written by dads.
When he sought to read about the experience of other parents, “I couldn’t really find the voices of dads”.
“Literature targeted mums because they, overwhelmingly, were the main carers for young children. Dads were considered the support act, working hard during the week but largely absent from home and caring responsibilities. Having a section about why dads matter in parenting was a demonstration of this reality. “
So, he thought adding his own voice and experiences in the very early days of fatherhood, might be valuable. The outcome? Man Raises Boy is an engaging read.
It’s perceptive and comprehensible.
Through careful research and interviews with dads doing it differently – including Tony Sheldon, Scott Connolly, Adam Liaw and Bernie Shakeshaft – Sturrock explores a new era of fathering that balances strength and vulnerability, allowing men to voice their insecurities and uncertainties, and encouraging them to truly cherish their families.
Man Raises Boy is an essential call to arms for all new fathers, leading them through the labyrinth of delight, anticipation, apprehension, blame and love in fatherhood.
It also tackles other lifestyle subjects including masculinity, bullying and sexuality.
This book should motivate and channel thinking and discussion about how men should help raise children.
While Man Raises Boy will “always stand as my love letter to Luke”, the personalities of his children glimmer, shine through – and indeed – they are radiant.
Beautifully moving!
