A self-improvement guide specifically for young men, focusing on six core principles called TOTEMS: purpose, morals, responsibility, knowledge, strength, and community. Each TOTEM is explored through dedicated chapters offering practical advice and philosophical insights on how young men can navigate life's challenges, build character, and achieve their full potential. "5*- Jerome Brown offers wisdom for crafting healthy masculinity." Reviewed by Elizabeth Upshur for Reader Views (2025) Jerome Brown's Totems: 6 Pillars Every Young Man Must Carry is a succinct, thoughtful, and needed text on how to build a man who stands for something, makes a meaningful life, and gives back to their community at large. Brown walks through the blueprint for masculinity, identifying Purpose, Morals, Responsibility, Knowledge, Strength, and Community as the necessary constructs for the modern man. What stands out to me in this text is the balance between physical and mental, emotional and spiritual; by which I mean that this instruction manual seeks and instructs with the goal of balance in all aspects of life. This text demands introspection, understanding that it is key to constructing a satisfying life. The Manosphere is quite loud with its idea of manhood, so it is nice to see something written to offer a balanced and empowering ideal for young men who are searching for themselves. The systems that Brown espouses building for oneself are sound principles and offer enough flexibility to tailor them to one's own vision for the future. I enjoyed this read and will be passing it along to my nephew. I think this book could have been strengthened by using the Oxford comma in some instances where Brown is emphasizing certain concepts, but it doesn't overly detract from the essence of what he is trying to get across. I love how Brown weaves in quiet moments of self-appreciation for his audience. Masculinity has a purpose, a place, and curating it should be a priority for young men. All the information is clearly presented, builds well upon each section, and demonstrates the breadth and passion that he has for the subject. I found the cover art to be striking with its use of the red pillar base, and the sketch of the Atlas figure holding up a sphere helps convey the weight of what Brown is trying to get across in these chapters—that making something of yourself, constructing and following these pillars in your life is difficult, but that is what makes it worthwhile and of paramount importance to you, your family, and your community. The call to action at the conclusion of the book is very well done and leaves the audience ready to go forth and conquer not just themselves, but the world. As Brown concisely puts it, "[d]oing the right thing isn't about convenience—it's about conviction...The future we all hope for starts with the choices we make today." Totems: 6 Pillars Every Young Man Must Carry by Jerome Brown is a worthwhile read and excellent resource!