When you are working on your summer reading list, don’t forget to add some of these selections that will expand your knowledge on sexual wellness, pleasure, relationships, and so much more.

If you need to tap into more self-love

The Body is Not an Apology: The Power of Radical Self-Love by Sonya Renee Taylor

The Body Is Not an Apology offers radical self-love as the balm to heal the wounds inflicted by these violent systems. World-renowned activist and poet Sonya Renee Taylor invites us to reconnect with the radical origins of our minds and bodies and celebrate our collective, enduring strength. As we awaken to our own indoctrinated body shame, we feel inspired to awaken others and to interrupt the systems that perpetuate body shame and oppression against all bodies. 

If you are curious about nonmonogamy

Ethical Slut: A Practical Guide to Polyamory, Open Relationships & Other Adventures by Janet Hardy and Dottie Easton

The essential guide for singles and couples who want to explore polyamory in ways that are ethically and emotionally sustainable. For anyone who has ever dreamed of love, sex, and companionship beyond the limits of traditional monogamy, this groundbreaking guide navigates the infinite possibilities that open relationships can offer. 

For the singles

Playing Without a Partner by Megan Stubbs, EdD

Whether you’re contentedly single or still searching for your one and only, Playing Without A Partner will empower you to own and explore yourself, both inside and out, between the sheets and beyond. 

For the partnered

Hold Me Tight: Seven Conversations for a Lifetime of Love by Dr. Sue Johnson

Through stories from Dr. Johnson’s practice, illuminating advice, and practical exercises, you will learn how to nurture, protect, and grow your relationship, ensuring a lifetime of love.

If you are looking for a book club selection or one to discuss with friends

Pleasure Activism by adrienne maree brown

How do we make social justice the most pleasurable human experience? How can we awaken within ourselves desires that make it impossible to settle for anything less than a fulfilling life? Author and editor adrienne maree brown finds the answer in something she calls “pleasure activism,” a politics of healing and happiness that explodes the dour myth that changing the world is just another form of work.

Have you read any of these books? Will you add any to your summer reading list?