Synopses & Reviews
** The newest innovation in sexual joy and wellness — now in hardcover. **
"Terrifically encouraging...McLaughlin has written a thorough primer on everything from sex toys to bondage to 'no means no, ' intended for young women readers who might be new to the idea that they deserve, and own, their personal pleasure." — The Times Book Review
In a culture where female empowerment is used to sell everything from sex toys to soap, most sex education continues to bypass pleasure. The results are stark ― we've grown accustomed to slut- and prude-shaming and allowed others to dictate how a "good girl" is meant to feel, act, and look.
In Girl Boner: The Good Girl's Guide to Sexual Empowerment, August McLaughlin offers an inclusive, unfiltered blend of personal narrative and practical tips on relationships, solo play, journaling, gender issues, and more. From the perks of "Jilling off" to the 7 types of 'gasms, Girl Boner will "empower you to own your sexual self and enjoy...your whole life a great deal more."
Review
"McLaughlin carefully homes in on the myriad ways that mental and physical health connect with sexuality in this uplifting and refreshingly inclusive guide to women’s sexual health based on a podcast of the same name. Combining sex advice with health information, McLaughlin addresses sex work, body image, sexually transmitted diseases, along with topics like masturbation and sex positions, while using language (“person with a vulva” and “person with a penis”) to ensure inclusion of trans and gender-nonbinary people throughout. In a chapter detailing her own personal recovery from anorexia, the author interrogates how lack of sexual empowerment can contribute to body image issues and a damaged sense of self. This message is reinforced later in a profile of the Olympic runner and former escort Suzy Favor Hamilton, who notes that cultivating sex positivity was a crucial part of her recovery from postpartum depression. McLaughlin balances these heavier chapters with lighter fare, including a coloring page, word search, prompts for further reflection, and plenty of illustrations. Equally fun, risqué, and informative, this is a welcome addition to sexual health literature."
Publisher's Weekly
Review
“August McLaughlin takes on sexuality, body image, depression and female empowerment head on! One part memoir, one part sociological manifesto = something of interest for women of all ages. August is a person of many talents: writer, singer, model, nutritionist, blogger + what’s next?? She hit the nail on the head with this book. Frank personal stories and interviews interspersed throughout the book help us unpack our personal inner conflicts that when unexamined suck the joy out of the female experience.” Cheryl Grant M.A., MFT, psychotherapist
Review
“Discussions about sexual health and desires help young women to better understand who they are. Unfortunately, these conversations are few and far between, leaving many woman grappling with their sexual feelings. I could not think of a more compassionate and sincere person to lead these conversations than August McLaughlin. Her experiences and conversational writing style create a sense of trust for her reader. I would highly recommend Girl Boner in my practice and to my friends.” Cora Reidenbach, school psychologist
Review
"Sassy, spicy, and deceptively wise, this book will empower you to own your sexual self and enjoy your romantic life ― and your whole life ― a great deal more." Victoria Moran, international bestselling author of Creating a Charmed Life
About the Author
August McLaughlin is a nationally recognized health and sexuality writer, author and host and creator of Girl Boner® and Girl Boner Radio. Her work appears in DAME Magazine, the Huffington Post, LIVESTRONG.com and more. Known for melding personal passion, artistry and activism, August uses her skills as a public speaker and journalist to encourage other women to embrace their bodies and selves, making way for fuller, more authentic lives.