The power of storytelling hit headlines recently with the impact of the Netflix drama, Adolescence, raising awareness of a hidden misogynistic online culture, and a crisis of masculinity in men and boys. With this collection of children's books we hope to reassure, to explore how masculinity is depicted, and to give young and older boys a sense of finding their place in society.

Misogyny can take many forms, but is often characterised as prejudice against or objectification of women. Teachers and parents report that they are increasingly concerned about the harmful content young people are exposed to online in an often murky world that their parents do not understand. The extent of online radicalisation is slowly surfacing, with a recent survey commissioned by BBC News reporting that more than a third of secondary school teachers have recorded misogynistic behaviour from pupils at their school over the last week (9/4/25). The research, using the survey tool, Teacher Tapp, revealed that over 60% of teachers have seen an increase in misogynistic behaviour among students over the last five years. Young people, often spending hours online, are exposed to harmful ideologies on social media feeds and forums extolling misogyny and violence, and where hate is normalised. Many adults are unsuspecting of the emojis and phrases that perpetuate harmful messaging, and that promote the 'mansopshere'. Through knowledge, understanding and compassion as adults we must counteract toxic online influencers promoting this unrealistic idea of masculinity, 

Books are a great way to reach and positively impact young people. Recent news from the National Literacy Trust tells us that children who enjoy reading are three times more likely to have good mental health than children who do not, with over 40% reporting to feel happier and 32% finding reading helps them understand the views of other people. HarperCollins, the UK’s number one publisher of young adult books, has revealed compelling research on how the reading habits of 14–25-year-olds impact their identity and wellbeing, at a time when young people are experiencing significant mental health concerns. Alison David, Consumer Insight Director at HarperCollins, said, “Our new research suggests wellbeing comes from more than the act of reading (relaxation, escapism, the content itself). The psychology of being a reader is enormously powerful. What we can take away from these powerful insights into the reading habits of 14-25-year-olds, is that having a sense of self that is linked with reading clearly leads to greater happiness and better wellbeing. Given the high levels of mental health problems among children and young adults, it’s clear that helping them find the joy in reading is more important than ever.”

Boys Don't Cry

One of the issues raised by the series Adolescence was the power of online influencers and personalities who try to twist the narrative of what being a man is, and indoctrinate young minds.

Mark Grist, award-winning poet and international battle rapper, delivers an important message about showing your feelings in his debut picture book, Rhino's Don't Cry. While watching his favourite action hero Spike-O Mcree in a pirate film  Milo picks up what he thinks is a key piece of information: rhinos don’t cry. It’s a doctrine he takes to heart, but it’s really put to the test when the family’s little cat Pickles gets lost. This lively, funny rhyming story tells preschoolers that not only is crying ok, it is actually very brave. 

Play by Luke Palmer, recently shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal, vividly describes the lives of four young boys growing up in a small town in England, negotiating friendship, school and family and each desperate to get out and find freedom.  Undoubtedly the author’s teaching experience contributes to this subtle, yet powerful, examination of adolescent male friendships, the influence of father figures or the lack of them and to consider some quite weighty themes including drugs, sexuality and toxic masculinity. These characters are real flawed human beings who learn and grow and as readers we can feel compassion for their poor decision making, as well as hoping for their redemption. Teen books with realistic male protagonists are rare and when they are as good as this they need to be treasured.

Children's books on feelings

Young men and boys need to know that sharing feelings and insecurities isn't a sign of weakness. We must empower our young men to feel a sense of self worth, which can be achieved by providing healthy, positive role models. Witty and wise, Nathanael Lessore speaks masterfully and honestly to young teen readers and covers a range of difficult subjects; grief, toxic masculinity, sexist influencers, domestic violence, and parents in prison. In King of Nothing these topics are written sensitively throughout, with just the right amount of humour. In particular, toxic masculinity is well-handled and considered, breaking down misogynistic soundbites, and showing the power and freedom to be enjoyed when boys have the option to live without the pressure of being “manly”. 

An antidote to toxic masculinity

Jason Reynolds taps into children and teenagers who exist - and often struggle - on the margins of society. Bittersweet, hard-hitting and powerfully perceptive, his pitch-perfect reader-centric stories shine a light on oft-overlooked lives and ring with empathy and authenticity. Whether writing for eight-year-olds, or young adults, in prose or in verse, Reynolds has a magic touch for creating authentic characters readers relate to, and believe in. Characters whose lives, experiences and actions make us think, “yeah, I get that. I understand what they’re going through, how they feel, why they did what they did”, even when they mess up. Maybe especially when they mess up — flawed characters we feel empathy for have the greatest impact. In his groundbreaking novel-in-verse Long Way Down Reynolds tackles issues of teenage violence giving his protaganist Will the strength to break the cycle. And in a welcome antidote to toxic masculinity, his latest novel Twenty-Four Seconds from Now has a winning main character Neon who is cool, authentic, who cries when others cry, and loves without embarrassment. 

Children's books to challenge gender stereotypes

In John's Turn, Mac Barnett celebrates individuality in charming story about a boy who finds the courage to show others his talent for dancing. In a tender and subtle affirmation of individuality and courage we see how John’s apprehension turns to confidence and even elation as he dances; his facial expressions and body language are spot-on, including the shy flush of pleasure at the well-deserved applause. How empowering to have a boy character in a children’s book so enthusiastic about, and accomplished at, ballet. Any child who struggles with performance anxiety, or fears criticism from their peers, will find a positive role model in John.

Read on for a selection of books that promote self worth, tackle toxic ideas of masculinity and expose the dangers of online radicalisation.

And find further reads in 30+ Books to Help Kids use Technology Responsibly, Navigate Social Media and Stay Safe Online.