Amanda's review of Bonk (original) (raw)

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Amanda's Reviews > Bonk: The Curious Coupling of Science and Sex

Bonk by Mary Roach

Bonk: The Curious Coupling of Science and Sex
by

18265148

If ever there were a book about sex that were less sexy than Bonk, it would have to have been written specifically for that purpose. A veritable calliope of penis especially, vaginas, engorged... everythings and extremely graphic, medical detail, this is not for the faint of heart. Yes, you'll need to gird your loins for this one.
(Sorry).

If you're interested in a scientific look at sex and how it works (or doesn't work, as is often so lamentably the case), then this is probably the book for you. If, however, you're looking for something to make you want to have sexy sex lots of sexy times, then this is probably (assuredly) not the book for you and you should really, really not read it.

In fact if you'd like to have sex ever again and not think about castrations, multiple speculae being put where they shouldn't be, or things being (gah) stretched that had no need to be (gah) then you should really stay away from this book. Forever.

In fact, you probably shouldn't even put this book near your genitals or near anyone you want to have sex with or in the same room as well, anything. For instance avocados.

That's not to say this is a badly written book! In fact it is well-written, and the audiobook is very entertainingly read.

Mary Roach has a deft touch that keeps the subject matter refreshing and even appealing, while simultaneously causing unconscious cringing. Honestly, I rather feel that I don't need to know any more about pig, cow or even human sex than this book has taught me. Alright, I probably do, but the subject matter is so disconcerting that I really feel like I don't need to know anything more for a good long while.

I didn't think I could get any more grossed out after reading Stiff, but surprise! At times this really, really put me off: I found myself walking around clutching at my genitals at inopportune moments. It's that sort of book.

So if you choose to read this book, don't act like I didn't warn you. Read with caution – be aware that there is some disturbing stuff in here! I definitely wouldn't read it to children, pets, pot plants or in the vicinity of dairy you don't want spoiled.

If you are curious how your body works and what makes you and your partner tick, or just want to be reassured that that strange quirk or pecadillo is not just normal but healthy, then this is the book for you.

But please, my fellow humans, stop putting things up your urethrae. It's just not good.

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Reading Progress

October 20, 2015 –Started Reading

October 21, 2015 –25.0% "I keep unconsciously covering my groin. This is very wince-worthy."

October 21, 2015 –50.0% "3===>"

October 22, 2015 –55.0% ""It is not, oddly, the pigs but rather the ducks that the castrated Thai must worry about.""

October 26, 2015 –Finished Reading

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