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Boys Don’t Cry
Book

Boys Don’t Cry

A Story of Love, Depression and Men

Hodder & Stoughton, 2018 more...

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Editorial Rating

9

Qualities

  • Applicable
  • Engaging
  • Inspiring

Recommendation

Playwright Tim Grayburn provides a vital resource for those struggling with depression or supporting someone who is depressed. His brutally honest, conversational narrative describes a journey of sadness, humor and, ultimately, triumph. He discusses the dual nature of medications which saved him, but which also likely prolonged his condition. Grayburn emphasizes the lessons he learned, such as the importance of discussing depression and tackling its root causes, even if that requires changing careers. He reveals the importance of the support he enjoyed from his loved ones, especially the unwavering care he received from his creative partner Bryony Kimmings.

Summary

Tim Grayburn experienced a normal, happy youth.

Growing up, Tim Grayburn had three siblings, a devoted stay-at-home mom and a supportive father who provided a positive, nurturing role model. Grayburn remembers having plenty of friends, some of whom would become lifelong mates. He enjoyed the freedom of bicycling, skateboarding, and exploring the streets, fields and empty lots of his small English town.

Football, girls, recreational drugs, alcohol and fun times at the local pub characterized his teenage years. At 17, Grayburn decided to attend university rather than get a job and start adult life. He chose media studies with the vague notion of becoming a sports journalist and headed to college in Chichester with a friend in the autumn of 2000. Grayburn experienced his first encounter with depression and suicide when an acquaintance from school hanged himself, leaving no note or explanation. He recalls that people didn’t want to talk about what had happened.

At university and afterward, Grayburn partied hard.

Grayburn focused on parties, alcohol and good times, rarely attending ...

About the Author

Tim Grayburn is an award-winning playwright.