Equality between girls and boys is one of the most pressing issues in Europe today. Two books stand out for their thought-provoking analysis of how education shapes the behaviors and social codes of both boys and girls. These two books are like two sides of the same coin, with one focusing on girls and the other on boys.

"Du côté des petites filles" (originally "Dalla parte delle bambine") is an essay written by Italian author Elena Gianini Belotti, published in 1973. This book explores the socialization of girls and examines how society influences and shapes their development and behavior from a young age. (For information: EAN: 9782721004499)

Four main themes are addressed:

• Social conditioning: Belotti analyzes how, from birth, girls are subjected to a process of social conditioning that prepares them for their role as women in a patriarchal society. This conditioning is evident through toys, clothing, behaviors encouraged or discouraged by parents, teachers, and the media.
• Gender stereotypes: The author highlights the gender stereotypes that are instilled in girls, encouraging them to be gentle, passive, obedient, and to value physical appearance more than boys do. This conditioning limits their potential and restricts their ambitions.
• Education and school: Belotti critiques the education system, which perpetuates gender inequalities by treating girls and boys differently. She points out how teachers, often unconsciously, reinforce traditional gender roles through their expectations and interactions with students.
• Psychological consequences: The book explores the psychological effects of this socialization on girls, including loss of self-confidence, emotional dependence, and acceptance of subordinate roles. Belotti argues that these effects have lasting repercussions on women's lives.

"Du côté des petites filles" has been praised across Europe for its pertinence and incisive analysis of how society shapes gender identities from childhood. The book has contributed to raising public awareness of the injustices and discriminations faced by girls and women.

However, some critics argue that Belotti may generalize certain observations and not take sufficient account of cultural and individual differences. Despite this, her work remains an important reference in gender studies and feminist education.

Du côté des petites filles " is a fundamental work that sheds light on the insidious mechanisms of gendered socialization and calls for a transformation of educational practices to allow girls to fully realize their potential without the constraints of gender stereotypes.

In mirror image (and not intentionally written as such), the reader will find at the heart of "Tu seras un homme féministe, mon fils," written by Aurélia Blanc in 2018. The author addresses her son and shares her reflections on how boys and men can be raised to become feminists. She explores the different facets of masculinity and feminism, offering practical advice for parents to raise their sons with an eye towards gender equality. (For information: ISBN 2501134052)

The four main themes addressed are:

• Preventing and combating sexist and misogynistic violence;
• Promoting a more gentle, emotional, and solidarity-based masculinity;
• The need for boys and men to be allies in the fight against gender inequalities; and
• The importance of education and socialization from a young age.

We will retain from this book that boys and men can be precious allies for women and non-binary individuals in the struggle against gender inequalities. It is possible to raise sons who are both strong and emotional, capable of caring for others and themselves. Moreover, preventing sexist and misogynistic violence begins with the education and socialization of boys and men from a young age. This represents a challenge for lifelong learning and education. 

While this book is often indicated as primarily intended for parents who want to raise their sons with a focus on gender equality, I encourage readers to approach it in an open and reflective context. Of course, it can also be of interest to educators, social workers, and anyone working towards promoting gender equality.

The author adopts an engaged but non-dogmatic tone, encouraging dialogue and reflection, and provides personal anecdotes and concrete examples.

"Tu seras un homme féministe, mon fils" is a book that offers a novel vision of boys' and men's education, promoting a more equal, respectful, and solidarity-based masculinity.