Toxic masculinity-themed books for children and teens
Children’s, young adult and teen books to spark conversations about toxic masculinity, discuss and challenge gender stereotypes, and offer real-life and persuasive alternatives to negative, misleading and damaging concepts of maleness created by influencers, social media, and anonymous internet accounts. This list features books by Ziggy Hanaor, Keith Negley, Jarvis, Paul Harfleet, Jason Reynolds, Jeffrey Boakye and Darren Chetty, Susie Day, Nathanael Lessore, Luke Palmer, James Goodhand, Cameron Kelly Rosenblum, Louise Finch and Alan Bissett.
Toxic masculinity books for children and teens – our recommendations
Toxic masculinity-themed picture books
Clive and His Hats by Jessica Spanyol
Clive enjoys wearing different hats, each inspiring a new adventure. He explores various roles, from a firefighter to a performer, sharing his hats with friends along the way. Part of a series, this picture book presents everyday play and friendships while encouraging imaginative exploration. The illustrations depict a diverse group of children engaging in creative activities. The book for 1-3 year olds introduces young readers to self-expression and play without restrictions, challenging traditional ideas about gender and toys.
Pink Trucks by Sam Clarke
Follow Stink’s quest for a pink truck as he explores huge trucks, fast trucks, noisy trucks, space trucks and more. With the help of his sister, he creatively constructs his pink truck from recycled toys. This heartwarming tale promotes creativity and innovation while exploring inclusion, tolerance and gender stereotypes. It’s a great book to read and discuss in nursery and EYFS settings. Read our full review.
The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf
The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf is a charming tale for 1-5 year olds about a gentle bull who prefers smelling flowers under his favourite cork tree to the rough play of his peers. When he’s accidentally chosen for a bullfight in Madrid, he calmly sniffs flowers in the arena, defying all expectations. Illustrated by Robert Lawson, this timeless classic sends a powerful message about peace, individuality, and staying true to oneself. Its gentle humour and heartwarming message have made it a beloved story for both children and adults.
Alex and Alex by Ziggy Hanaor
Alex and Alex are two children who are very alike in many ways but have very distinct interests. When a trip to the museum sees each Alex wanting to do something different, there’s tension. But the strong friendship bond always wins through in this clever picture book for 3-6-year-olds. The lack of gender and deliberate avoidance of stereotypes makes this a useful book to help 3-6 year olds think more about what allows people to get along and like each other.
Big Boys Cry by Jonty Howley
Levi’s dreading his first day at a new school. His dad, not sure what to say, mutters, “Big boys don’t cry.” But as Levi walks, he notices men of all ages showing their emotions—no shame, no holding back. By the time he reaches school, he starts to wonder if his dad was wrong. Later, when his father opens up about his own fears, they share a quiet moment of understanding. A gentle, thoughtful story for 3-7 year olds about emotions and challenging traditional notions of masculinity.
Tough Guys (Have Feelings Too) by Keith Negley
Tough Guys (Have Feelings Too) by Keith Negley shows 3-5 year olds that even the toughest characters—wrestlers, knights, superheroes—have feelings, just like everyone else. The story highlights that it’s okay for dads (and all tough guys) to feel sad sometimes. With bold, simple illustrations and a fun, lighthearted tone, this book opens up a playful way for kids and parents to talk about emotions and the importance of expressing them.
Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall
Jabari says he’s ready to jump off the diving board—but when it’s his turn, he suddenly has a lot of stretching to do. And some thinking. And maybe just a little more waiting. At the pool with his dad and baby sister, he watches other kids take the plunge while his nerves hold him back. With gentle encouragement from his father, Jabari finds his courage, climbs the ladder, and finally leaps. A warm, reassuring story about facing fears.
The Boy Who Loved Everyone by Jane Porter
Dimitri loves telling everyone—his friends, the birds, even the trees—how much he loves them. But when no one says it back, he feels a little lost. His mother gently explains that love isn’t always spoken; sometimes, it’s in a smile, a helping hand, or just being there. As Dimitri starts noticing kindness all around him, he realises love takes many forms. A heartfelt story for 4-6 year olds about understanding emotions and the quiet ways people show they care.
The Boy with Flowers in His Hair by Jarvis
In The Boy with Flowers in His Hair, Jarvis tells the touching story of David, a boy whose colourful flowers fade when life gets tough. With the help of his best friend, David finds joy again as they create paper flowers together. This heartwarming story celebrates friendship, kindness, and the support we offer each other during difficult times. With simple illustrations and a gentle approach to tough subjects, it provides a thoughtful way for 3-7 year olds to understand and discuss difficult challenges.
Real Cowboys by Kate Hoefler
This picture book for 4-7 year olds flips the script on the classic cowboy, showing them as more than just rough riders. They’re caretakers, problem-solvers, and dreamers, tending cattle with patience and helping others with kindness. It celebrates cowboys and cowgirls of all kinds, emphasising the quieter, more thoughtful side of life in the West. With a lyrical tone, it invites readers to see beyond the stereotypes and discover the true heart of cowboy life.
The Boy with Big, Big Feelings by Britney Winn Lee
A boy feels everything—joy, sadness, excitement—so intensely it almost bursts out of him. Worried he’s too much, he tries to keep it all inside. Then he meets someone just like him. Together, they realise big feelings aren’t something to hide—they’re part of being human. A gentle, reassuring story for 4-8 year olds about emotions, self-acceptance, and finding people who understand you.
The Boys by Lauren Ace and Jenny Løvlie
The Boys follows Tam, Rey, Nattie, and Bobby from childhood to adulthood as they navigate life’s ups and downs. As they grow, their friendship shifts—sometimes in ways they don’t expect. Through big moments and small ones, they learn to support each other, express emotions, and embrace change. With expressive illustrations and a thoughtful approach, this story for 3-6 year olds captures the challenges and joys of growing up while celebrating the power of lifelong friendship.
Bravo, Anjali! by Sheetal Sheth
Anjali loves playing the tabla, but not everyone thinks she should. When a classmate insists it’s a “boy’s instrument,” doubt creeps in, and she starts holding back. But after an inspiring chat with an older student, she realises her passion matters more than outdated ideas. This uplifting story explores perseverance, confidence, and breaking gender stereotypes, encouraging 4-8 year olds to own their talents—no matter what anyone else says.
Perfectly Norman by Tom Percival
Norman’s life takes an unexpected turn when he sprouts wings. At first, he’s thrilled, but soon anxiety takes over as he worries about what others will think. So, he hides them under a coat, but the discomfort only grows. With some help from his parents, Norman realises that hiding his wings only makes him frustrated. This heartwarming story for 3-6 year olds from Tom Percival’s Big Bright Feelings series celebrates the power of self-acceptance and embracing what makes us unique.
Pansy Boy by Paul Harfleet
A touching and sensitively illustrated picture book that shows the reader the life of a 7-year-old boy who loves the beauty of nature, writing, art, flowers, butterflies, and the awe of birds in flight. This is a great book to tackle themes of toxic masculinity, intolerance, and playground name-calling, and encourage tolerance and acceptance of everyone’s interests and perspectives.
Toxic masculinity themed books for primary aged children
As Brave As You by Jason Reynolds
11-year-old Genie heads to Virginia for the summer with his grandparents. There, he learns about his grandfather’s blindness and uncovers some family secrets. As Genie faces a challenging rite of passage, he starts to rethink what bravery really means – whether it’s about proving yourself or knowing when to accept your limits. A beautifully honest look at family, vulnerability, and growing up.
The Boy Who Made Everyone Laugh by Helen Rutter
Billy Plimpton is an 11-year-old with a stammer who dreams of becoming a stand-up comedian. Despite the challenges with his speech, Billy is determined to find his voice. As he juggles school and family, he learns valuable lessons about friendship, self-acceptance, and perseverance. Rutter’s own experience with her son’s stammer adds authenticity, creating a story that celebrates laughter, kindness, and resilience.
What Is Masculinity? Why Does It Matter? and Other Big Questions by Jeffrey Boakye and Darren Chetty
What Is Masculinity? explores the complexities of masculinity, tackling issues like gender stereotyping, identity, and the impact of societal pressures. Aimed at readers aged 10 and up, the book examines masculinity in areas such as work, politics, and mental health. It challenges traditional gender views and encourages critical thinking, with personal stories and questions that spark reflection. It’s a great resource for 10+ year olds. Highly recommended.
Stories for Boys Who Dare to Be Different by Ben Brooks
Featuring 100 inspiring tales of men who defied traditional gender roles – from household names like Daniel Radcliffe and Nelson Mandela to lesser-known trailblazers – this book showcases men who broke the mould and achieved greatness. Aimed at 8-12 year olds, it offers alternative role models for those who don’t fit the typical idea of masculinity. It encourages boys to embrace their individuality, encouraging creativity, emotional expression, and authenticity.
Max Kowalski Didn’t Mean It by Susie Day
Max Kowalski Didn’t Mean It by Susie Day follows Max, a boy trying to meet his dad’s impossible standards. When his father vanishes without a trace, Max takes on the challenge of looking after his three younger sisters and runs away to a quiet Welsh village. As he tackles responsibility, family, and his evolving sense of masculinity, Max learns tough lessons about loss, personal growth, and what it really means to grow up – all with a dose of humour and heart.
Click the buttons below to purchase all of the books in this primary school toxic masculinity list, as well as class sets of any of these books and many more, from Bookshop.org UK. Or buy the books from Amazon – ideal for gifts or your classroom library.
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Toxic masculinity themed books for secondary aged children and teens
The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier
Set in a corrupt boys’ school ruled by a secret society, when 14 year old Jerry Renault refuses to sell chocolates as part of the school’s fundraiser, he becomes the target of relentless bullying and abuse from both students and staff. The novel explores the harsh realities of standing up against peer pressure, authority, and mob mentality, leading to a powerful, tragic ending that challenges the notions of resistance and power.
King of Nothing by Nathanael Lessore
Anton is the self-proclaimed ruler leader of Year 9 and with his friends, rules the school. But he faces a dilemma when he strikes up an unlikely friendship after a life-changing event. Will he remain loyal to his new friend or his previous reputation? Suitable for teen readers, this compelling contemporary comedy explores themes of friendship and identity and offers relatable insights into peer pressure and personal growth. Highly recommended for KS3 and KS4.
Oxygen Mask by Jason Reynolds, art by Jason Griffin
With an intoxicating blend of stirring graphic imagery by Jason Griffin and perspicuous stream-of-consciousness narrative commentary by Jason Reynolds, this is a unique and memorable graphic novel for KS3 upwards. The accessible cut-up style presentation will appeal to teachers looking for creative writing group inspiration and cross-curricular artwork opportunities, in particular large-scale displays.
The Last Thing You’ll Hear by Jan Dunning
Jan Dunning presents this stylish thriller about sisters Wren and Lark, whose rivalry intensifies when they meet music producer Adam and DJ Spinner. Who will Wren decide to believe and how will it affect her sister Lark’s safety? 14+ year olds will be engrossed in themes of sibling rivalry, toxic relationships, and obsessive fandom. Perfect to elicit discussion about the impact of toxic masculinity, ambition and influence, we think The Last Thing You’ll Hear will be a hit with KS4 readers.
Channel Fear by Lisa Richardson
When a couple of YouTube ghost hunter influencers vanish into thin air, Iris and her friends are determined to find them. The toxic threesome finds the final filming spot and it reveals terrifying footage. Chilling, well-paced and convincing, it’s a viral ‘Blair Witch’ for teens precariously spanning the zoomer and alpha generations. We think Channel Fear will be a hit with socially aware and internet-savvy KS4 students.
Play by Luke Palmer
Four boys killing time in a small town dream of escape. Then Mark takes a side job for his brother’s associate – bad move. Suddenly, he’s in deep, and there’s no easy way out. Spanning ages 12 to 16, the story shifts between perspectives, digging into family, school, and the unspoken rules of masculinity. With themes of crime, drugs, and violence, it’s a gripping but hard-hitting read for KS4 readers. It’s perfect for sparking PSHE discussions with GCSE students. Highly recommended.
Last Lesson by James Goodhand
After a life-changing incident, Ollie Morcombe’s life spirals from being a star pupil to a prime target for the school bullies. He’s had enough and wants revenge. So when it comes to the end of the school year, Ollie decides to go out with a bang. This unforgettable novel explores teenage mental health, toxic masculinity and bullying. It’s a gripping portrait of a vulnerable young man on the brink. ‘Last Lesson’ is ideal to discuss in book clubs and read as part of a school ‘Prevent’ strategy.
The Revenge Game by Jordyn Taylor
Alyson Benowitz, a self-proclaimed hopeless romantic, finds herself tangled in a messy love story at her prep school, where a secret competition, the King’s Cup, fuels boys’ pursuit of conquests. When Alyson and her friends launch the Queen’s Cup to take back control, Alyson starts to reconsider her relationship with Brenton Riggs Jr. Told through different media formats, this novel for 14-18 year olds explores themes of love, friendship, and revenge, ultimately shining a light on the strength of solidarity among women.
The New David Espinoza by Fred Aceves
David Espinoza, a Mexican American teen, decides to transform his body after a viral video shames him. His pursuit of a muscular physique leads him into the dangerous world of bodybuilding, steroids, and body dysmorphia. As David’s obsession grows, his relationships and sense of self begin to fall apart. This powerful, unflinching look at steroid abuse, male body dysmorphia, and toxic masculinity offers a raw exploration of the pressures young men face. Aceves’ personal experience brings authenticity, making it a gripping read for 14+ tear olds. Highly recommended.
Medusa by Jessie Burton
Jessie Burton reimagines the Greek myth through a feminist lens, giving a fresh voice to the iconic character. Isolated on an island after Athena’s curse, Medusa’s life is upended when Perseus arrives. The novel delves into self-acceptance, victim-blaming, and the harsh expectations placed on women. Burton’s version allows Medusa to reclaim her power through self-love, offering a modern, relatable twist on the ancient tale.
Tradition by Brendan Kiely
Tradition by Brendan Kiely takes a hard look at the toxic culture of masculinity and sexual violence at Fullbrook Academy, an elite boarding school. The story follows Jules Devereux and Jamie Baxter, two students from different walks of life, as they challenge the harmful traditions that perpetuate sexism and violence. Addressing themes of consent, privilege, and allyship, Kiely’s unflinching narrative is vital for discussions on toxic masculinity and the #MeToo movement, making this a powerful and essential read.
Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher
This powerful and haunting novel explores the devastating effects of bullying, isolation, and loss. Clay Jensen receives a box of tapes recorded by his classmate, Hannah Baker, who recently took her own life. Each tape reveals one of the thirteen reasons behind her decision, leaving Clay grappling with his role in her tragic fate. The novel prompts deep reflection on mental health, empathy, and the far-reaching consequences of our actions. A must-read, though it tackles heavy themes.
One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus
In the deliciously twisted world of Bayview High, four students with dark secrets find themselves suspects in a murder when a fellow classmate dies during detention. As the plot unfolds, alliances shift, secrets unravel, and lies abound. It’s an electrifying thriller that will keep teen readers guessing until the final page.
The Sharp Edge of Silence by Cameron Kelly Rosenblum
The Sharp Edge of Silence takes us inside Lycroft Phelps boarding school, where Quinn, a survivor of sexual assault, struggles with her trauma, while Charlotte and Max wrestle with their own issues of ambition and identity. Through multiple perspectives, the novel dives into toxic school cultures, privilege, and the silence that surrounds tough issues. It’s a raw, emotional read that doesn’t shy away from tackling difficult topics like sexual violence and power dynamics. Thought-provoking and intense.
Hexed by Julia Tuffs
Hexed follows Jessie Jones, a new girl at school who discovers she’s a witch. Between mastering her powers and dealing with bully Callum Henderson, she faces the challenge of fitting in while confronting toxic masculinity. As her powers grow, Jessie learns to embrace her witchy side and speak up. Tackling sexism and consent, this book serves up a relatable and empowering read for younger teens.
Sasha Knight by Sean Godfrey
Sasha Knight follows Matthew Archer, whose childhood friendship with Sasha, a girl who vanished when they were 11, leaves a lasting mark on his life. Jumping between past and present, the novel traces Matthew’s quest for answers, tackling heavy themes like toxic masculinity, emotional trauma, and the divides between Jamaica and the U.S. Exploring racism, homophobia, gender inequality, and sexual assault, it offers a raw look at how these issues mould a person over time.
The Eternal Return of Clara Hart by Louise Finch
After witnessing his friend Anthony assault Clara Hart, James “Spence” Spencer gets stuck in a time loop, desperately trying to stop her death. Each repetition forces Spence to confront his role in the toxic masculinity around him. Finch’s debut novel dives deep into sexual assault, misogyny, and grief, with strong character growth and a gripping structure that reveals the ongoing consequences of male entitlement.
Lads by Alan Bissett
Lads is a no-nonsense guide for teenage boys on respect and consent. It tackles toxic masculinity head-on, offering practical advice on everything from flirting to pornography and locker room talk. Bissett blends humour with straight talk to help boys become allies in building healthier relationships. With a focus on empathy, listening to women, and rejecting harmful behaviours, this book gives young men the tools they need to navigate relationships with respect. A must-read for the next generation. Highly recommended.
Click the buttons below to purchase all of the books in this secondary school toxic masculinity list, as well as class sets of any of these books and many more, from Bookshop.org UK. Or buy the books from Amazon – ideal for gifts or your classroom library.
Buy from UK.Bookshop.Org Buy from Amazon.co.uk
Disclosure: If you buy books using the buttons above: we may earn a commission from Bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops; as an Amazon Associate schoolreadinglist.co.uk earns from qualifying purchases.
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Toxic masculinity resources for teachers
- PSHE Association has created a toolkit for schools which addresses misogyny, toxic masculinity and social media influence through PSHE education in key stages 1-5. They also offer downloadable resources to address the influence of online misogyny and the manosphere through RSHE/PSHE.
- Coram Life Education offers SCARF resources for schools to prevent misogyny, toxic masculinity, and harmful social media influence in school.
- No Knives Better Lives has developed the Imagine a Man toolkit, which aims to build positive masculinity with young people. It “attempts to define the role of men in society in a way that we believe to be aspirational.”
- Bold Voices has created a free school toolkit titled “How to Talk To Young People About Andrew Tate.”
- The state of Victoria in Australia has developed a comprehensive set of resources for secondary schools for teaching children and teens about respectful relationships in PSHE.
- Students at Clevedon School in North Somerset produced a short film – Toxic – which encourages men and boys to be open with their emotions. It’s ideal to use in KS3 and KS4 assemblies.
- Netflix has made the drama mini-series Adolescence, starring Stephen Graham, Owen Cooper, Ashley Walters and Erin Doherty available to view in schools. Endorsed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the series will be made available to schools via the Into Film+ service.
Adolescence is a highly praised drama – endorsed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer – which tackles themes of toxic masculinity, misogyny, social media bullying, and the ‘manosphere’.
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