What Love Is: And What It Could Be

Jenkins, a philosophy professor at the University of British Columbia, shakes up the status quo from the very start of this philosophical inquiry into the nature of love, revealing in the introduction that she is in a polyamorous relationship with her husband and boyfriend. But that revelation isn’t intended to shock; instead, it jump-starts a serious conversation about the true meaning of love and its societal implications. This leads to a fascinating discussion on monogamy and why it is a central component “in the social role of romantic love.” “If I had to whittle this book down to one message, it would be a simple one: think about love for yourself,” Jenkins says. Her book is more of a conversation starter than a conclusive study, but her main message to readers—“think about love for yourself”—is clear, and her vulnerable voice is charming and relatable. (Jan.)