'Bringing up the Boy' Summary

Bringing up the Boy by Carl Werner is a classic parenting book that offers practical advice and insights on raising boys. Werner was a father of two boys himself, and he drew on his own experiences to write a book that is both informative and entertaining.

The book covers a wide range of topics, including the importance of discipline, how to build a strong relationship with your son, how to teach your son important values such as honesty, courage, and kindness, how to help your son develop his talents and interests, and how to deal with common problems such as bullying and teenage rebellion.

Werner's advice is based on the belief that boys need love, guidance, and support in order to thrive. He encourages parents to be patient and understanding, and to always remember that their sons are individuals with their own unique needs and personalities.

One of the key themes of the book is the importance of discipline. Werner argues that discipline is not about punishment, but rather about teaching boys right from wrong and helping them to develop self-control. He encourages parents to use discipline that is consistent, fair, and firm.

Another important theme of the book is the importance of building a strong relationship with your son. Werner argues that the best way to discipline a boy is to have a good relationship with him. He encourages parents to spend time with their sons, to listen to them, and to show them love and affection.

Werner also emphasizes the importance of teaching boys important values. He argues that boys need to be taught to be honest, courageous, kind, and respectful. He encourages parents to model these values in their own lives and to teach their sons the importance of doing the right thing, even when it is difficult.

In addition to the topics mentioned above, Werner also covers a variety of other topics in his book, such as how to deal with bullies, how to talk to your son about sex and drugs, and how to prepare your son for college and the workforce.

Essence and spirit of the book

The essence and spirit of Bringing up the Boy can be summed up in one word: love. Werner believes that love is the most important thing that parents can give their sons. He writes:

"The greatest thing that you can give your boy is love. Love him unconditionally, even when he makes mistakes. Love him when he is successful and love him when he fails. Love him when he is easy to love and love him when he is difficult to love."

Werner also believes that it is important to be patient with boys. He recognizes that boys develop at their own pace and that they may make mistakes along the way. He encourages parents to be understanding and supportive, even when things are tough.

Finally, Werner believes that it is important to have fun with your boys. He encourages parents to spend time with their sons doing the things that they enjoy. He writes:

"One of the best ways to teach your boy important values is to have fun with him. When you are having fun with your boy, you are creating positive memories that will last a lifetime."

Conclusion

Bringing up the Boy is a classic parenting book that is sure to be helpful to any parent who wants to raise a happy, healthy, and well-adjusted boy. Werner's advice is based on the belief that boys need love, guidance, and support in order to thrive. He encourages parents to be patient and understanding, and to always remember that their sons are individuals with their own unique needs and personalities.

If you are a parent of a boy, or if you know someone who is, I highly recommend Bringing up the Boy. It is a book that will help you to become a better parent and to raise a better boy.