What boys are like

[whizbee2000]

As a mother of two boys, JKR gets a lot of things right when writing 
about young boys/preteens. They are very naive about how girls think 
(and usually don't even notice them at all until the hormones really 
start kicking in). Boys DO NOT like to discuss the days events or 
much of anything. They don't show much emotion unless really angry 
or when they're being really silly.

Everything is a game, and boys are very, very competitive. (which 
Harry really isn't) They hash over games, boy things and generally 
don't talk much. They also have a devilish, crazy streak to do 
really dangerous things. Their loyalty to their moms is pretty 
amazing and they constantly seek male role models to pattern 
themselves after. They like gadgets, speed and danger. 

Contrary to what many girls think, they usually are NOT discussing 
girls, but sports, cars, games, the latest fun thing they did, etc. 
They also don't really like to read and aren't big fans of 
schoolwork.

I really notice the difference when the neighbor girls come over. 
They like to engage in conversation and "bla bla bla" so much that I 
actually want the peace of my all boy house back! 

Boys do cry (and it's usually when you don't expect it). It's 
usually from a hurt deep inside, rather than a wound, a cruel word 
or act, or embarrassment. My boys have grown up in a well adjusted 
home, however I think Harry would have some serious issues w/out any 
nurturing mother figure or a father figure to pattern himself after. 
I think that's so important in healthy development of boys.

JKR gets the gist of what boys are all about though. It'll be 
interesting to see how Harry develops as she truly sees what her own 
little boy is like as he grows up. (Hopefully he won't be 15 by the 
time the series is done! ha ha)--Wendi