What an interesting book written by a gifted writer!
I told a friend that I was reading Bonk, a book about the science of the study of sex. She, an academic, heard in my description that I was reading a book about gender or relationships or some such. Me, too much of a literalist, explained that no, this book was actually about sex—the science of learning about it. Yes, as in intercourse. And yes—-as in how they study (scientifically and sometimes less so) things about sex.
Granted, such a book could be too odd, or too technical, or too glib. But Roach approaches her topic with enough humor and enough genuineness that the reader is carried along a delightful journey of education and entertainment. That said, Bonk is not, by any means, a how-to. It is not lewd. It is not pornographic. It is, however, informative and enlightening. It’s funny and frank. It’s respectful and raw.
Admittedly, Roach’s hilarious asides (and footnotes) will not be appreciated by those who are uncomfortable with detailed and open discussions. But if you’ve an open mind and curiosity about people such as Masters, Johnson, Kinsey, Leonardo, and Bonaparte, read Bonk and travel along while Roach shares fascinating facts and fabulous tales. You will learn things you would not have thought possible, things you will puzzle on for a while, things you will tuck in the back of your mind for further exploration, and things, well, things you probably wish you could unlearn. 😉
Bonk came recommended by a friend who has read many of Roach’s books. And I totally understand why. Now that I’ve read this one, I can’t wait to get my hands on Stiff! (Oh, now, stop it. That one’s actually about death. Full title: “Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers.”)