Being kinky can be fun -- but what about the first steps towards entering that world? How to bring it up with a partner? What should someone know about safety? What's out there in the culture?
As Kinky as You Wanna Be: Your Guide to Safe, Sane and Smart BDSM by Shanna Germain is a good introduction to the diverse world of kink, BDSM -- and, to a certain extent, well being in general.
As Kinky as You Wanna Be has a different format that most books on sex. Shanna's discussions on different topics are intelligent, informative, often personal and sometimes humorous. Interspersed with the chapters are interviews with assorted extras, plus short stories and excerpts from erotica authors including Janice Ashbless, Kristina Lloyd, Remittance Girl, and Shanna Germain herself. The mix keeps things interesting, as we get different perspectives on the same topics, along with some pretty entertaining fiction that illustrates the discussions in quite exciting ways. (The book also ends with a glossary of common vocabulary in the kink world, along with resources such as books and websites.)
My only issue with
As Kinky as You Wanna Be is that it is, first and foremost, a primer for those new to this world. The introduction says "Whether it's your first time or thousandth adventure: welcome" before ending with "All you have to do is take that first step." The latter sentiment is more in tune with the rest of the book: Those experienced in kink will find little new here, from communication (more about overcoming initial awkwardness than expanding one's repertoire) to the glossary. (I knew virtually all the terms there.) If you know the scene(s), this is not the book for you. That said, if you want to discover what you (and others) enjoy, or you'd like to share your interests with someone inexperienced,
As Kinky as You Wanna Be is a fine doorway to this side of sex and sexuality.
Overall grade: B+
Reviewed by James Lynch
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