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Discussing compassion, kindness and ‘How to Be a Boy’ with Dr Ranj
Primary Times speaks with NHS Paediatrician, BAFTA-award-winning TV Presenter and Sunday Times bestselling children’s author Dr Ranj about his new book ‘How to Be a Boy (And Do It Your Own Way)’.
In a world that is ever-changing and adapting, growing up can be a troublesome task. ‘Being a boy’ can mean something different to everybody. Amongst the many different messages put out into the world today that can seem confusing to young people, Dr Ranj champions individuality and self-love, embracing these differences that make us all who we are.
This new book ‘How to Be a Boy and Do It Your Own Way’ for ages 9+ is an informative, inclusive and empowering guide to help readers discover the boy that they are, as well as the boy that they want to be. Written with Dr Ranj’s usual warm and friendly style, it navigates several important topics including gender stereotypes, peer pressure and bullying, as well as mental health and body image. The book seeks to help young readers become their best selves. We asked Dr Ranj some questions about the book…
1) Where did the idea come from and do you think you would’ve wanted to read this book when you were a boy growing up?
There are so many mixed messages out there for boys and young men growing up. It can be so confusing – especially if you feel a bit ‘different’. So I wanted to show everyone that ‘being a boy’ is just about being the best person you can be, no matter who you are, where you’re from, what your abilities are, or what you like. I wish I had this book when I was growing up. It would have made life so much easier!
2) What made you want to include other viewpoints and thoughts from other male figures in the book?
I didn’t just want readers to take my word for it. So I asked some of my inspirational friends who have their own unique insights and experiences to give their advice. And they’re not all male either, which I think is even more important! Likewise, the book has lots of examples of great role models who are or have done wonderful things in the world.
3) What do you want readers to hopefully take away from the book?
So many things: everything from discovering your own identity, to looking after your mind and body, to being an ally and treating others with respect. And you’ll learn that the key to it all is understanding, compassion and kindness.
4) What was your favourite part of crafting and writing this book?
Seeing the book come to life with the design and illustrations is probably my favourite part. When you’re writing, all you see is lines of text on a page, but it really gets exciting when you see the final designs.
5) If you could sum up ‘How to Be a Boy’ in one sentence, what would it be?
It’s a guide to discovering who you are and being the very best version of yourself.
6) Are you currently working on or planning any new ideas for children that you think our audience would be excited for?
I have another picture book coming out later this year, called Superfamily Like Ours, which is aimed at younger children and explores different kinds of families and how each one is just as amazing. And who knows what will be next? I like to be surprised!
‘How to Be a Boy and Do It Your Own Way’ by Dr Ranj Singh and illustrated by David O'Connell is out now (published by Wren & Rook).