Grayson Perry is relatively new to me. He appeared a few times on Q.I., but hardly enough to be a regular favorite, and I'm unaware if I've come across any of his pieces in museums. So I'm not entirely sure why I looked up his work. But I'm glad I did. The Descent of Man is a wonderful examination of masculinity as it is, has been and should eventually be. What I think I found most amazing about the book is Perry's warmth. His advocacy is wrapped in the understanding of why so many cling to increasingly (if not already completely) outdated views and embodiments of masculinity. It is not having an older adult telling you off, but, rather, having a peer (who may happen to be older than you) slide up next to you with loving correction. He lays his own foibles down to allow us to do the same. It's a terrifically brilliant book.