RESCUING BOYS

William Pollack, a Harvard psycholo-gist, argues that boys in America are in crisis. Adhering to what he calls the "Boy Code," they are learning that expressing certain emotions or showing weakness is inappropriate, and they're apt to wear a mask of toughness that suppresses their true feelings. The text includes many real examples of boys candidly speaking about their own situations. Pollack is an academic, not an actor, and his narration isn't as polished as it might be, but he speaks with authority and has a reassuring, rather than berating, tone. Parents will be able to identify with his easy manner and will appreciate his sensible advice for helping their sons remove the mask. D.B. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 99]