The Healing Power of Sex

In this well-paced book, Sachs celebrates the joys of sexuality, considering it a complex gift that requires a delicate balance of passion and judgment. Because sexuality is much more than two bodies, or even one, participating in a sexual act, she says it's important to explore all possible sexual dimensions. To that end, she includes sections on getting reacquainted with one's body, the importance of establishing a mind-body connection, achieving a healthy attitude toward sex, ways of adding vitality and spontaneity to sexual relationships, and why sex talk is important. She even makes suggestions on how parents can discuss sexual issues with their children. In light of these perilous times (read: HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases), information is supplied on how to have safer, smarter sex, and how to address these issues with a new partner. Although a reading list is provided, source notes would have been helpful, especially to substantiate some controversial statements-for example, that African American women are taught that it's wrong to touch themselves, or it's part of the Greek tradition for young men to select same-sex partners before they accept their traditional matrimonial obligations. (Sept.)