cover image From Boys to Men: A Woman's Guide to the Health of Husbands, Partners, Sons, Fathers, and Brothers

From Boys to Men: A Woman's Guide to the Health of Husbands, Partners, Sons, Fathers, and Brothers

Emily Senay, Rob Waters. Scribner Book Company, $30 (640pp) ISBN 978-0-7432-2594-6

Women shouldn't have to make all the medical decisions for their families, yet according to authors Senay and Waters, women almost always become their families' medical managers. And while this role creates""extra responsibilities, extra worry and a lot of extra stress,"" most women are willing to take it on because they want their husbands, fathers and sons""to live long, healthy lives."" It is for such women that Senay (a medical correspondent for CBS News) and Waters (a former editor and writer for WebMD and Health magazine) have created this comprehensive laywoman's reference guide to male health. Beginning with the development of the male fetus and ending with the typical medical conditions of middle-aged and elderly men, the book attempts to unveil the mysteries and confusion women may have about the opposite sex. Difficulty dealing with questions about sex from a curious preteen boy? Having trouble understanding the raging hormones of an adolescent son?""Take a deep breath, calm down,"" say Senay and Waters. Moms are advised to be composed and laid back when talking to their sons, creating an environment where they can share their feelings freely and without embarrassment. Frustrated with the cavalier attitude of an overweight husband? Chapter 10 teaches readers the six stages of change so that they can give the most helpful advice at the right time. Well organized, excellently researched and written in friendly, jargon-free prose, Senay and Waters's book gives women the knowledge they need to help keep their loved ones healthy. Now, if only the authors would write a book for women about women as well.