Book Review: The Dude's Guide to Manhood by Darrin Patrick

It seems as of late, there has been more emphasis on being a man or achieving manhood. Some would even consider growing a beard the sign of a true man which I am saying there nothing wrong with growing a beard. There are even commercials on television talking about smelling like a man. I remember one "Snickers" commercial where two guys did something that revoke their man cards then looked at each other and said, "Lets do something manly." Does you remember what they did next? They started ripping their chest hairs.

We even got words that downgrade manhood such as "Man Crush," which a man having a "crush" on another guy because of how manly he is. How about "Bromance?" Wikipedia defines it as "a close non-sexual relationship between two (or more) men." So I can have close male companions and it is a bromance which is a play on the word "romance." Man card revoked!!!

What is true manhood and how does a man get there? What does it mean to be a true man without compromising who you are in Christ? Darrin Patrick talks about that in his latest book, The Dude's Guide to Manhood. This book maps out what true manhood is. How a man is suppose to be determined, where he does not give up in accomplishing his goals. Also true manhood is taught to a man who is teachable. Patrick said, "True manhood isn't unearthed by accident. It doesn't simply happen as we get older or as our circumstances change. We don't wake up as men one day, and we don't stumble into it. It is handed down from one generation to the next" (pg 18-19).

True manhood means that men are disciplined and it is not just athletes. Men need to be disciplined in every area of their lives including the work place which man was created to work. Read Genesis 2. God put Adam to work in the garden before the Fall. Men are to be devoted husbands, fathers, and committed to community especially to other men. Men are to be fighters for what is right and show your emotions. Men are to reflect the true man who is also the Savior, Jesus Christ. What I love about this book is Patrick gives an opportunity for those who do not believe to become Christians. I am thankful that Patrick took a subject like manhood and shared the gospel with his readers.

I know this book has to deal with man issues but I know women should read this as well so they can encourage their husbands to be the man God has called them to be. Father, share this book with your son(s) or give them a copy that you can read with him and share what you have learned. Pastors, this is one book you want to start men's ministry with. Youth Pastors, this will be a great book for your teenage boys to read.

Thanks Booksneeze for letting me review this book.