Perhaps more than other kinds of sex, anal sex requires at least a little bit of homework if you want to do it safely and pleasurably. All of the books below, arguably, tell you more than you need to know about anal sex, and you may not read any of them cover to cover. But each offers straightforward, accurate, and myth-busting information that will almost certainly increase the odds of you having great anal sex. If you’re more of a visual learner you may want to check out an anal sex video.
Anal Pleasure and Health
Down There Press
The undisputed bible of anal sex. This exhaustive text by therapist Jack Morin includes information for men and women on all aspects of anal play and anal sex, including physical, emotional, and psychological aspects. He helps you break down negative attitudes, understand taboos, and develop your own feelings about anal play. After getting past the misconceptions, Anal Pleasure and Health offers concrete tips and advice on communication and technique for anal play and anal sex. 275 pages.
The Ultimate Guide to Anal Sex for Women
Cleis Press
Tristan Taormino blew the lid off the myth that women don’t like anal sex (and require constant goading from partners to try it). This book, written for women of all orientations and anyone who wants to have anal sex with them, offers an inspiring and reassuring guide to safe and fun anal sex. It has less content than Anal Pleasure and Health, but a different attitude, and everything you need for solo and partner anal exploration, including more on sex toys. Taormino has several videos inspired by this best selling title. 240 pages.
The Ultimate Guide to Anal Sex for Men
Cleis Press
This offers similar information but with a focus on men of all sexual orientations. Like Taormino’s other title, this book is less comprehensive than Anal Pleasure and Health, but with a more conversational and lighter tone. Covers solo and partnered anal play, safety, use of anal sex toys, and communication. 260 pages.
The Adventurous Couple's Guide to Strap On Sex
Cleis Press
An anal sex book with a different focus, Violet Blue’s Adventurous Couple’s Guide to Strap On Sex is written specifically for heterosexual couples interested in exploring male anal penetration. This form of sex play (also called Bend Over Boyfriend and pegging) seems to be gaining increasing attention, and Blue’s guide provides everything you need to know from communication and technique to shopping tips. 160 pages.
