Kinky History

“Kinky History may not be the most fun you can have with your clothes on, because, well, you can have sex while still dressed. Regardless, Esmé Louise James’s book is a riotous romp that is entertaining, educational, empathetic, and inclusive. I loved it.”—James Fell, author of On This Day in History Sh!t Went Down

“Who knew that history could be so…kinky? Esmé Louise James offers a lesson in history that you most definitely did not receive in school. She shows how, by looking into the past, we can learn a lot about sex in the present, including the root sources of sexual shame. This book shows how the path to modern sexual liberation starts with a comprehensive understanding of the history of sex, kinks and all.” —Justin J. Lehmiller, Ph.D., Host of the Sex and Psychology Podcast and author of Tell Me What You Want

“Bold and enlightening, Kinky History is a radical journey through the evolution of human intimacy. It’s a thrilling reminder of the need to break taboos and forge a sex-positive future. Not just a book, it’s a compelling call to sexual understanding and acceptance.”—Chantelle Otten, author of The Sex Ed You Never Had
 
“A feast for the mind and the imagination, featuring histories you definitely didn’t learn in school. Best served over multiple sittings, it will leave you more than satisfied.”—Dr. Amy Thunig, author of Tell Me Again
 
“Esmé is wonderfully knowledgeable and passionate about the history of all things sex. Her unbridled enthusiasm is infectious, making it hard not to be drawn into the fascinating world of Kinky History!”—Dr. Matt Agnew, author of Dr. Matt’s Guide to Life in Space
 
Non-fiction pick of the week: “Far from being academic, it’s a tale told with relish and humor … A colorful study, often told in a suitably picaresque style.”—Sydney Morning Herald
 
“Friendly and accessible … a fun book and an important one as it explores five ‘kinks’ that may challenge how we think about sex.”—Books+Publishing
 
“Written with obvious relish, Kinky History is fun and informative.”—ArtsHub

“Like James herself, Kinky History is hilarious, thoughtful, nuanced, and driven by academic research. It’s both a compendium of incredible historical tidbits about everything from ancient dildos to tentacle porn, and a plea to treat our sexual desires with empathy and understanding. If only every history book were as compelling, we’d be destined to never forget the past.”—Dr Hallie Libermann, author of Buzz: A Stimulating History of Sex Toys