cover image Why Men Fake It: The Totally Unexpected Truth About Men and Sex

Why Men Fake It: The Totally Unexpected Truth About Men and Sex

Abraham Morgentaler, M.D. Holt, $25 (320p) ISBN 978-0-8050-9424-4

Morgentaler, a urologist specializing in men’s sexual health and an associate professor at Harvard Medical School, wonders why there isn’t a male analogue of Our Bodies, Ourselves. Men are complicated too, right? While his book doesn’t warrant the instant-classic status Our Bodies achieved in 1971, it is a good start, full of fascinating stories and useful information. Morgentaler’s investigation is organized around four themes: orgasm and its impediments (yes—some men do fake it), sex drive, erections, and, of course, penis size. The third section is the widest-ranging and most scientifically grounded (Morgentaler also wrote about a related topic in 2003’s The Viagra Myth), and it allows him an opportunity to attack the Masters and Johnson “zeitgeist of several decades ago.” Morgentaler’s case studies are relatable and often funny (some should be read discreetly in public), and they crystallize his sensitive approach to the subject matter: “sex is weird,” and “sex is not just sex.” This accessible treatment of the emotional and physical nuances of male sexuality is informative and entertaining, and will appeal to men and women alike. Agent: Bob Levine, Levine Plotkin & Menin. (Apr. 16)