Author: Charlotte Markey, Daniel Hart, Douglas N. Zacher
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

From early childhood, boys often feel pressured to be athletic and muscular. But what impact does this have on physical and mental well-being through their teens and beyond? Worryingly, a third of teen boys are trying to “bulk up” due to body dissatisfaction, and boys and men account for twenty-five percent of eating disorder cases. What can we tell our boys to help them feel happy and confident simply being themselves? Being You has the answers! It's an easy-to-read, evidence-based guide to developing a positive body image for boys aged 12+. It covers all the facts on puberty, diet, exercise, self-care, mental health, social media and everything in-between. Boys will find answers to the questions most on their mind, the truth behind many diet and exercise myths and real-life stories from other boys. Armed with this book, they will understand that muscles don't make a man – it's enough simply being you!

Educational. Engaging. Well-written. This book tackles one of the most unseen issues: male young-adult life-body image. The authors are experts from different fields and each shares significant ideas and topics regarding the matter. I love the different formats used in the book, such as Q&A, wherein experts answer questions from teenagers themselves. The “Debugging Myths & Misbeliefs” section is my personal favorite, as misinformation is very prevalent these days. I also like “My Story,” stories shared by individuals about body image, and “Expert Advice,” wherein experts offer random advice regarding body image.

The graphics make the book more pleasing to read. I like the images and designs used. Although some fonts tend to be hard to read, almost everything turned out great.

I personally enjoyed how the authors debug myths regarding our bodies, especially what most teenagers believe and how they can be protected from fake information from resources a click away, or from other people.

The experts offer advice that is neutral, not condescending, and realistic and motivating, not over-hopeful. I’m guessing that teenagers will have a different perspective on body image after reading this book. Here is a glimpse of what to expect:

Stigma weighs heavily on the health and well-being of larger individuals. We need to take care not to negatively judge, tease or reject people because of their weight. Instead, we should support and embrace body diversity.

As a former teenager, I have gone through body image issues and am glad there are books and people ready to discuss them, especially as it can affect both our physical and emotional/mental well-being.

- Kevin Velayo