Preview
  • A Curious History of Sex

  • By: Kate Lister
  • Narrated by: Kate Lister
  • Length: 8 hrs and 18 mins
  • 4.5 out of 5 stars (221 ratings)

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A Curious History of Sex

By: Kate Lister
Narrated by: Kate Lister
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Publisher's summary

The act of sex has not changed since people first worked out what went where, but the ways in which society dictates how sex is culturally understood and performed have varied significantly through the ages. Humans are the only creatures that stigmatize particular sexual practices, and sex remains a deeply divisive issue around the world. Attitudes will change and grow - hopefully for the better - but sex will never be free of stigma or shame unless we acknowledge where it has come from.

Based on the popular research project Whores of Yore, and written with her distinctive humor and wit, A Curious History of Sex draws upon Dr. Kate Lister's extensive knowledge of sex history. From medieval impotence tests to 20th-century testicle thefts, from the erotic frescoes of Pompeii, to modern-day sex-doll brothels, Kate unashamedly roots around in the pants of history, debunking myths, challenging stereotypes, and generally getting her hands dirty.

You will laugh, you will wince, and you will wonder just how much has actually changed.

Contains mature themes.

©2020 Kate Lister (P)2020 Tantor
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What listeners say about A Curious History of Sex

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A brief and fun history of sex

If you know Kate Lister from her Betwixt the Sheets podcast, this book is for you. It is a smart and funny exploration of the history of sex. And she’s also a wonderful narrator.

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thought provoking, educational and a tad witty

Easy to follow with data to back up facts shared. Well written, good flow and addictive. Couldn’t stop listening.

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Highly recommend

For those who appreciate history and humor. AND SEX. It's eye opening, sometimes even shocking, as well as entertaining.

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crazy how sex was so taboo

Really good book about the history of sex crazy how sex was so taboo and now we just push it out there all in all give this book a try it's really good

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Good Storytelling.

Excellent story telling. I applaud Kate for the work she has undertaken and the in-depth study into various literature to come up with this book.
The references cited by her made me wonder in awe.

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a fun listen on the history of sex

Kate did an equally great job of writing and narrating this book. I love how she made each topic fun but informative at the same time. As she said this isn't a complete history but it was thorough in all the right areas. Deserves a second listen.

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Dr Katie Lister is 10 out of 10

It’s about time we get a thoroughly researched and engaging book about sex in history. Dr Lister has an excellent voice making it a pleasure to listen. You’ll never think of impotence the same way after experiencing chapter 8.

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Great story

I found the performance somewhat difficult as the reader has a slight lisp but the story was Great and captivating

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Great read!

Fun, informative, incredibly well researched, and written in an enthrallingly joyous fashion. Strong recommendation for anyone who wants a better insight into this universally relevant history.

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Excellent!

Witty, fun and insightful. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and cause myself smiling and sometimes laughing through most of it. Bonus that I now have some new vocab to use!

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