Tribesmen: Circle of Elders: A Journey to Manhood
Who Is Teaching Your Boys to Be Men?
In this episode of the podcast, we sit down with author Kelda Laing Poynot to discuss her novel, Tribesmen: Circle of Elders: A Journey to Manhood, and the powerful conversations it is inspiring between boys, fathers, grandfathers, uncles, and other trusted mentors.
There are few responsibilities more important than helping the next generation grow into godly, confident adults. Yet many parents, especially mothers, recognize that while they play an essential role, there are lessons about manhood that are best modeled and passed down by faithful men who have already walked the path.
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More than a story, Tribesmen: Circle of Elders paints a picture of what biblical manhood can look like through the wisdom of elders who intentionally guide a young boy as he learns one virtue at a time. Each lesson builds on the last, showing that maturity isn’t something a young man is expected to discover on his own. Instead, manhood is a journey that is modeled, encouraged, and passed from one generation to the next.
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Kelda, a former certified teacher who later chose to homeschool her three sons, shares why she believes these intergenerational relationships matter so deeply. She explains how Tribesmen: Circle of Elders can become a meaningful study for fathers and sons, grandfathers and grandsons, uncles and nephews, or any trusted mentor investing in the life of a young man.
If you’ve ever wondered how we can intentionally prepare boys for adulthood in today’s world, this conversation offers thoughtful encouragement and practical hope. Join us as we explore the value of mentorship, the wisdom of older generations, and the lasting impact of walking alongside a young man as he grows into the person God created him to be.
One of the things that makes Tribesmen: Circle of Elders especially unique is that it goes beyond simply telling a story. With concise, easy-to-read chapters, thoughtful discussion questions, hands-on activities, and a companion guide, it gives families practical ways to talk about character, faith, and the essential life skills boys need as they prepare for their own rite of passage into manhood. Along the way, readers are challenged to think more deeply about what it truly means to be a man of character. Through memorable male archetypes, each virtue is explored in a way that encourages meaningful discussion, growing independence, and thoughtful reflection. The story also introduces personified vices that work to undermine a young man’s best intentions, helping readers recognize the temptations and obstacles they will face while learning how godly character is formed. Rather than simply reading about these virtues, families and mentors are invited to explore them together through meaningful conversations and shared experiences.
The message behind Tribesmen: Circle of Elders has resonated with readers, educators, and families alike. The book has received recognition through the Firebird Book Awards and has been featured in author interviews highlighting its unique approach to mentoring boys through story. Rather than offering a checklist of behaviors, Kelda invites readers into an engaging narrative where timeless virtues are lived out, tested, and strengthened. The combination of compelling storytelling, discussion questions, activities, and companion resources makes this more than a novel—it becomes a practical tool for families who want to have meaningful conversations about integrity, courage, responsibility, and faith. Whether read one chapter at a time or used as a family study, Tribesmen: Circle of Elders encourages boys to grow into men whose character is shaped with purpose, wisdom, and the guidance of those who have gone before them.
:To learn more about the book, visit Tribesmen: Circle of Elders.
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