Boys Do Cry
Gus Worland • Illustrated by Heath McKenzie
Boys Do Cry unfolds the story of a little boy having the absolute worst day—spilled milk, sprained toe, runaway sandwich, desk-tangling dragon—you name it, he endures it. Yet despite the mounting chaos, he holds in his tears, determined to “be big.” It's only when Dad steps in with a hug that the floodgates open—and with that release, the day starts to feel manageable again. Gus Worland’s warm, rhyming narrative confronts the outdated “boys don't cry” stereotype head-on, gently reframing crying as a natural, resilient response to tough emotions. Heath McKenzie’s expressive, playful illustrations beautifully mirror the boy’s emotional journey, blending humour and heart with vibrant energy and empathetic detail .
Why It’s Included
I chose this book for its powerful simplicity—it doesn’t lecture or shame, it just shows how a moment of vulnerability can be healing. As a mental fitness advocate and founder of Gotcha4Life, Worland brings lived authenticity and purpose to the message. The book’s emotional impact is amplified through a letter from Hugh Jackman and an afterword that steers readers toward conversation and care. It’s a refreshing, relatable tool for starting conversations about emotions, masculinity, and mental wellbeing in early childhood .
Who It’s For
Ideal for children aged 3–7, especially boys learning about big feelings—or anyone who’s felt overwhelmed and needed to let it out. Boys Do Cry also offers valuable support for parents, educators, and therapists, giving them a gentle way to discuss vulnerability, gender norms, and emotional expression. Its humour and relatability makes it a natural fit for read‑alouds in the home, classroom, or mental health setting.
Further Reading
Tomorrow is a Brand‑New Day by Davina Bell & Allison Colpoys
Ups and Downs: A Book for Kids About Big Feelings by Karen Young
