About This Book
A parent should reach for this book when their son is entering the awkward, often confusing years of early puberty and needs a story that mirrors his internal chaos with humor and honesty. This is the perfect choice for the thirteen year old who is suddenly preoccupied with bodily changes, first crushes, and the feeling that everyone else has the answers he lacks. It provides a safe space to explore topics like locker room anxiety and changing family dynamics without being clinical or preachy. Josh Stephenson is a relatable narrator navigating a year of massive shifts, from an estranged father's cryptic gift to the sudden appearance of a teenage cousin who seems to know all the secrets of attraction. The story balances the hilarity of growing up with a realistic look at the vulnerability of adolescence. Parents will appreciate how it validates the embarrassment boys often feel while fostering a sense of curiosity and wonder about the transition into manhood. It is best suited for readers aged 12 to 15 who are ready for a frank, humorous, and heartfelt look at the messiness of being thirteen.
