Getting Off review

I definitely enjoyed reading Getting Off. Being a fan of self-pleasure, I found it deliciously indulgent to devote several evenings to reading about the history of self-pleasure, the various benefits of masturbation, and (the most interesting part) the number of suggestions that Ms. Waxman has for making the most of one's self-loving sessions.

The author's tone, however, did grate on me at times, and that's why the book doesn't get five stars from me. She refers to your clit as "your clitty," which made me shudder a little bit, and at times she seems almost to be talking down to the reader. The book would be great for a young woman who's interested in masturbation but a little apprehensive about getting started; its cheerleader elements would probably seem helpful to someone who feels clueless about where to begin. But for those who are already fans of female masturbation, the author's tone might seem (as it did to me) a little bit like that of a teacher who is a little too enamored of her own wisdom.

The best parts of the book, for me, were the lists of things like films, TV shows, popular songs, and books that pay tribute to female masturbation. The chapter on fantasies was also one of the most comprehensive, straightforward, and liberating discussions of the subject that I've read. The "techniques" chapter will be a good resource for future times when I find myself wanting to try something new, and would also be great for anyone who feels that her current methods of self-pleasure could use an upgrade. And I also must add that the illustrations and general design of the book were wonderful and really enhanced my reading experience.

This book has earned a place in my bedside drawer, and I'm sure that I will be consulting the "techniques" chapter as well as the "fantasies" chapter for those nights when I want some inspiration.