A man stands. A man fights. A man bleeds.
These are the first lessons you learn in a town where girls are objects, words are weak and fists do the talking.
Will’s more at home in the classroom than the gym, and the most important woman in his life is his gran. So how can a boy who’s always backed away from a fight become the hero who saves the day?
Because a disaster is coming. One that Will can prevent. But only if he learns the most important lesson of all: sometimes to step up, you have to man down.
A searingly powerful exploration of toxic masculinity, perfect for fans of Juno Dawson or They Both Die at the End.
I first came across James via an email from Clare Mackintosh when Last Lesson was her book club pick back in 2020. I thought this was an excellent debut and was thrilled when I found out James had another book coming out.
Man Down tells the story of Will. He’s a teenager who isn’t quite your monosyllabic sulky grump. His interests are much more varied than the stereotyped sports, booze and sex. Instead he loves photography, reading, older music and being outdoors. He is devoted to his gran and visits regularly and helps her in a very kind and gentle way. He comes across as an absolute sweetheart and someone you just want to give a big cuddle to and tell him that he is absolutely fine as he is and not to hide or change who his is to suit others!
The story can be a little dark and uncomfortable in parts. Without giving away too much for those yet to have had the chance to read for themselves yet, there is exploration of difficult relationships, familial, friends and relationships. There is trauma, addiction and suicide amongst others. And all on a background of the challenges, pressure and expectation of toxic masculinity. I am not the primary target audience as a far from young adult but I thought the themes were well examined and developed and although perhaps not always easy to read, there was an underlying sensitivity.
I think Man Down will be enjoyed by many including those of us a bit beyond YA days! If you liked Last Lesson I think you’ll love this and if you haven’t tried either, what are you waiting for?
About James Goodhand: James lives in Surrey with his wife and newborn son. He took up writing three years ago. A mechanic by day, much of his work has been written at an oil stained workbench whilst ignoring a queue of broken cars in need of his attention. James is also a keen musician, regularly gigging as a rhythm & blues pianist. James’ debut YA novel, Last Lesson, tackling teen mental illness and toxic masculinity, was published in spring 2020 by Penguin Random House Children’s.
Intensive Gassing About Books 
Great review!
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