About This Book
A parent might reach for this book when they notice their teen son performing a tough persona or struggling to balance peer expectations with their true self. It is particularly relevant for families navigating the quiet ripple effects of grief or those seeing signs of toxic social dynamics at school. The story follows Anton, a popular student whose mother forces him into a local activity group after his behavior slips. There, he is paired with Matthew, the school's social outcast. Through their developing bond, the book explores the pressure of performance, the weight of hidden loss, and the courage required to be authentic. It is a compassionate and funny look at modern masculinity for readers aged 12 to 16, offering a roadmap for breaking free from the need to be the king of the school.
