OH YES YES YES!!! The Joy of Sex (The Joy of Sex - Alex Comfort)

Member Name: thegarleon

Product:	The Joy of Sex - Alex Comfort
Date:	04/02/06 (398 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Informative, educational and fun.

Disadvantages: It's over too soon.......sorry dear.

Sex is everywhere, there is no denying it. If it wasn't for sex, none of us would be here. So why is there such a stigma attached to the exploration and education of the most natural thing in the world? Alex Comfort's classic "Manual" goes where other fear to tread, right to the point…."The Joy of Sex" itself.

There are three types of people in this world. Those that have read The Joy of Sex, those who haven't, and those who want to (but pretend they don't). It's one of those books that men casually glance at in book shops when they pretend to be looking for a book on football. Most women seem to know someone who has read it but haven't read it for themselves. In short, I intend to dispel a few myths about what can only be described as A ROMP OF A READ!

-----So, erm, eh, what is it about? I don't need to know but my erm friend does-----

The Joy of Sex is quite an old book. It has been revised, reprinted and updated many times since it's original launch in 1972. However interest in it has always been high. It is a book that can generate many interesting conversations at parties or the pub just by mentioning it's title. In actual fact it is not about sex at all. Nope, It's about stamp collecting!…..Nah, only kidding. Really it is a book about the having a laugh, enjoying yourself and getting some ideas and information along the way. Up until this book came out in the early 1970's, there was nothing like it. It caused a storm when it hit bookshops. In this day and age of liberal thinking, freedom of information and the Internet it is easy to forget just how difficult it was to get hold of good sex education material. You may laugh but there are still people out there for whom if "ignorance is bliss" they are having a 24 hour orgasm. This book holds back on nothing. It is ALL there for you to see and read about. But why is this book so different? Because…..

1. It's not too technical, biological or gynecological
2. It assumes you know absolutely nothing, which is a great way to start.
3. It is written with a genuine sense of fun.
And finally…..

4. It treats you like an adult. A very refreshing notion.An educational book that doesn't talk down to you.

-----Go on then, tell me more-----

Most people are aware that The Joy of Sex has "pictures" in it, right? Yes it does, well done. The pictures are tastefully drawn in charcoal, and shock horror, the people look as if they are enjoying themselves. (Dr Alex Comfort and John Raynes' famous line drawings of real people have been complimented in newer editions by tastefully soft focus photographs) In the preface Alex Comfort M.B. P.H.D. says,

"One aim of this book is to cure the notion, born of non-discussion, that common sex needs are odd or weird…This book is about valid sexual behaviors, plus a certain amount of how and why they work. This book isn't a dictionary, more of a cook book."

And with that, I give you a breakdown of the sections in the book. As Alex suggested, the cookbook analogy is expanded upon in the sections entitled "Ingredients, Appetizers, Main Courses and Sauces". There are also parts covering Venues, The Implications of AIDS and Health and Other Issues. To be honest you can flick through the book and just read the areas that catch your eye. If only because of a catchy sub-title like "Viennese oyster" (which has nothing to do with ice cream…..well not much), or a picture that makes you giggle like a teenager. It is all so accessible. There is no filth factor or guilt. You are not bombarded with morals or perversions. You are however strongly advised on many occasions to "respect" your partner. You are reminded of the "bonds that sex brings between two people" and that the whole experience "must be consenting and fun, or there is no point in it at all". Very wise words.

-----Is it any good…..really?-----

I am glad I was not around when all the hype kicked off about "The Joy of Sex", because I bet a lot of people just bought it thinking it was "Finally legalized and accessible pornography for the masses". I know it is very explicit, but being explicit in the correct context, to the right audience is completely different. It is educational. I learned a lot more than I thought…..or did I just think I knew more than I actually did? Regardless, the short paragraphs and light-hearted way the information is put across do make it a good read. A good read but not a great one. Everyone I know who has read it has a different opinion on it….depending on who the conversation is with of course….

"The pictures are crap" or "The pictures are tasteful"
"It is too tacky and dated" or "I like the hints and romance"

You get the idea.

This is not a Kama-Sutra or Venus and Mars book by any standards, so don't buy it if you are looking for 1001 positions or how to cure brewers droop. So why would you buy it then? To be honest, it is funny. If that is reason enough, then why not buy it for a laugh. It creates conversation and promotes intercourse…ha ha. By today's standards there is probably a lot more visual guides and "how to's DVD's and CD roms" around that offer more content , but this book will do me fine thank you.

-----Where can I get it?-----

Now isn't that the question we would all like answered? I am sure the right person will come along, and who knows after a nice meal and a glass or two of wine........


-----The book. Where can I get THE BOOK?-----

OH THAT, It is available from practically every major bookshop on the high street from Borders to WH Smiths. But if you do not like the idea of bumping into someone you know with a copy of it next to your new Harry Potter , then it is available on-line from Amazon as well. The price varies dependent on which version you desire…..soft or hard…..back that is.

£8-£10 on average, right up to £20 for the latest glossy version with updated pictures and biog on Dr Alex Comfort.

Remember that for further information on sex and std's if you are under 25 you can get information from "Brook" at www.brook.org.uk or if you are over the age of 25 you can go to the pub or bingo and get the it there.

Thank you for reading, I hope it was good for you.

Summary: A fun but dated read. Not for the faint hearted though!