Raising Black Boys to Men

“Raising Black Boys to Men: A Mother’s Guide to Raising Thugless Sons” is a candid book of one mother’s journey: her successes, trials, and errors, in raising her three boys, in a society that glorifies thug-life. Author, Patricia Joseph, who successfully navigated the lives of her three sons, through the ever so present negative influences in society, felt compelled to write about her experience in raising thugless sons. Patricia credits much of her success to just “good, ole-fashion child rearing.” In her book, Patricia provides simple anecdotes and tips, to help mothers faced with the challenges of raising Black boys. Patricia cleverly sprinkles humor throughout the book, and provides laughter to the role of parenting. The book is a short, quick-read, which can be read in a few hours. At the end of each chapter, Patricia provides “Mom Tips,” which are little nuggets of information, for moms to reference long after reading the book. All readers will enjoy the heart-felt emotion of Patricia’s call-to-action: “Save Our Sons.” Also, readers will come to understand the unique challenges African-American mothers’ face, with raising their boys. Patricia takes no prisoners, when she writes about the incarceration rates, and illiteracy of young, Black men. At the end of the book, Patricia provides readers with a list of “Recommended Reading,” as a supplement to further their knowledge and increase awareness.