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The Sweetness of Venus: A History of the Clitoris
For millennia, scientists thought women were inside-out versions of men, and male anxiety about female sexuality generated ludicrous ideas and perpetuated inaccurate information. The Sweetness of Venus is a provocative, straight-talking history that exposes the denial, misunderstanding, brutality, and lies endured by this taboo part of human anatomy.Much of the story of the clitoris has been defined by those who discovered and mapped her. However, even after the true anatomy of the clitoris was finally fully mapped with 3D imaging in 2005, it still hardly gets a mention in America's bestselling teen sex education book for girls, and no mention at all in the parallel book for boys. Equality when it comes to sex has not been achieved.This book challenges Western culture's definition of female sexuality and will have you laughing out loud, shouting "clitoris!" with abandon, and championing sex equality and pleasure for all.
261 pages, Paperback
Published February 4, 2021
About the author
Sarah Chadwick
1 book12 followersSarah's award winning first book is a timely exploration of the history of female sexuality. Her distinctive voice, which mixes rigor with humor in an engaging, accessible tone is the product of her love of reading, research, problem solving, libraries, high and low culture and writing. Her compassionate voice moves easily between academic research and anecdote, bringing the reader a gem of a book that ranges widely and always entertains.
Sarah studied at Durham University, The University of London and Warwick University in the UK and is currently completing the practicum year of a Clinical Psychology Masters in Chicago to be a therapist. She also runs the instagram page @its.personalgirls.
2021/22 Book Awards: IPPY Gold Medal, Women's Issues; IPA Distinguished Favorite, Women's Issues; CWA, Indy Non Fiction, Runner up.
Sarah studied at Durham University, The University of London and Warwick University in the UK and is currently completing the practicum year of a Clinical Psychology Masters in Chicago to be a therapist. She also runs the instagram page @its.personalgirls.
2021/22 Book Awards: IPPY Gold Medal, Women's Issues; IPA Distinguished Favorite, Women's Issues; CWA, Indy Non Fiction, Runner up.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
February 20, 2021
I don’t know what I was expecting when I picked this up, but who’d have thought that a book about a subject such as this one could be at once funny, touching, thought-provoking and very relevant today. I learnt so much, from the history of its representation in various art forms, to the link between the human anatomy and religion. Moreover, as a man I felt myself quite strongly agreeing with many of the observations and ideas put forward by Sarah Chadwick. This is the sort of book we need at the moment, and was an excellent lockdown read I do not regret picking up.
February 21, 2021
A book for today, righting the wrongs of female sexual history. Should be on every schools sex education curriculum. Sarah's book blows all those old taboos out of the water. All men should read this book, if nothing else it will open up the conversation within relationships.
Highly recommended, informative and amusing in equal measures.
Highly recommended, informative and amusing in equal measures.
October 2, 2021
"Scientists don't operate in a vacuum; they work within a cultural context, and it is naive to deny the power of a culture to shape the academic work that it sponsors and champions".
Sarah Chadwick delivers what's on the label, a very well researched book on the history of the clitoris through society and science. She explores myths, the politics behind the clit and misunderstandings of the female body.
There are so many people I believe this book will benefit, especially those who are less well-versed with the female body or oppression of female sexuality through history. That said, I don't believe as someone in my mid-20's with a lot of vagina-centred books behind me, I was the correct reader.
There was little new information and a whole book on a single element of the body missed the mark for me. A lot of the greater points made were left at introductory comments as they fell too far outside the main line of discussion - the clit. I would have loved more analysis from the author around how the meaning of frigid has developed, or her conclusion on why different groups, such as Mormons, appear to have a different perception of what constitutes sexual activity.
I must say, I was very intrigued by the idea of hidden sexuality in 19th century fiction, shouting out Anna Karenina and Madame Bovary. Given I'm currently reading both, I'm looking forward to applying this lens for a deeper understanding than the surface level offers. Equally, I enjoyed the criticisms of society on female sexuality but wanted more - and I know the author was capable of delivering.
I would certainly buy another book from the author because I greatly enjoyed her accessible style of writing, the use of imagery and her clear research strengths. Whilst I didn't gel with the book, I don't believe this is a criticism of the author or her abilities, merely the overall focus.
Sarah Chadwick delivers what's on the label, a very well researched book on the history of the clitoris through society and science. She explores myths, the politics behind the clit and misunderstandings of the female body.
There are so many people I believe this book will benefit, especially those who are less well-versed with the female body or oppression of female sexuality through history. That said, I don't believe as someone in my mid-20's with a lot of vagina-centred books behind me, I was the correct reader.
There was little new information and a whole book on a single element of the body missed the mark for me. A lot of the greater points made were left at introductory comments as they fell too far outside the main line of discussion - the clit. I would have loved more analysis from the author around how the meaning of frigid has developed, or her conclusion on why different groups, such as Mormons, appear to have a different perception of what constitutes sexual activity.
I must say, I was very intrigued by the idea of hidden sexuality in 19th century fiction, shouting out Anna Karenina and Madame Bovary. Given I'm currently reading both, I'm looking forward to applying this lens for a deeper understanding than the surface level offers. Equally, I enjoyed the criticisms of society on female sexuality but wanted more - and I know the author was capable of delivering.
I would certainly buy another book from the author because I greatly enjoyed her accessible style of writing, the use of imagery and her clear research strengths. Whilst I didn't gel with the book, I don't believe this is a criticism of the author or her abilities, merely the overall focus.
February 21, 2021
I truly looked forward to the very few spare moments I have throughout the week to relax with some tea and read this book. The effort dedicated this research is extremely evident, and Sarah Chadwick makes witty, funny, and sometimes painfully relatable remarks about the realities of female sexuality. I found myself constantly feeling like Sarah was reading my mind and answering my questions page after page. Definitely recommend!
February 20, 2021
Laugh out loud funny - I didn’t know what to expect with this book, but it delivered on so many fronts. I learnt so much, at times felt outraged by the history, but I also laughed. If you liked ‘This is Going to Hurt’ you’ll love this indie book. I’m giving copies to all my friends.
October 15, 2021
Encompasses science, history, feminism: all the good stuff. Left me with a mix of anger, hope, and lots of new knowledge, as well as insight into many ongoing debates in a nuanced but concise way. Thought-provoking, informative, but also enjoyable and even funny at times.
Read
June 18, 2024The Sweetness of Venus is brilliantly researched and should be read by everyone. Thank you Sarah Chadwick for writing such a funny and informative book.
February 21, 2021
A brilliantly researched book, highly informative, eloquently argued and wonderfully funny. This is a powerful book and it deserves to be shared and read by all - male and female alike. Thank you Sarah for writing it.
February 20, 2021
Great, insightful book that makes centuries of history incredibly readable! Well written with great wit and sensibility. Loved it!
February 20, 2021
This book is both intriguing and informative, full of knowledge and humor. It’s long overdue to have this topic in the spotlight and will appeal to all genders and ages.
February 20, 2021
What a brilliant book!! It is informative, funny and so unlike anything else I have read. I can’t recommend more highly.
February 17, 2021
Bravo!!!!! Finally, a woman courageous enough to call attention to something that has too long been ignored, female sexuality! This book took me through the range of emotions, ultimately making me laugh in satisfaction. A must read for every woman! A brilliant gift from mother to daughter, a fun gift for all of your girlfriends and an education for boyfriends and husbands too!
May 19, 2021
This book should be compulsory for everyone. It presents a thorough history of the female anatomy and an insight into the contemporary cultural framework surrounding female sexuality in a wonderfully accessible and digestible manner. Sarah finds the perfect balance in which to discuss hugely important topics through her use of humour and inclusivity. Thank you Sarah for writing this, we needed it!
February 27, 2021
So looking forward to reading this when it's available in the UK.
Now read it, and loved it. It's a delight. Thorough in its treatment of the history of its subject, it fascinates, educates and amuses, being written with great fluency, wit and humour. (I defy anyone not to laugh aloud at the passage on Tomás Sánchez, or the imagined interview with Emma Bovary.)
Essential, informative and entertaining reading - in writing The Sweetness of Venus Sarah Chadwick has made a great contribution to the happiness of women, and their partners.
Now read it, and loved it. It's a delight. Thorough in its treatment of the history of its subject, it fascinates, educates and amuses, being written with great fluency, wit and humour. (I defy anyone not to laugh aloud at the passage on Tomás Sánchez, or the imagined interview with Emma Bovary.)
Essential, informative and entertaining reading - in writing The Sweetness of Venus Sarah Chadwick has made a great contribution to the happiness of women, and their partners.
February 7, 2022
This book was fascinating and one that I didn't realize I needed to read.
Extremely well-researched, Chadwick not only lays out the history of male vs female sexuality and how it has been perceived, taught, and hidden for literally centuries, but she also forces the reader to think about their own constructs. For a subject that has been considered taboo throughout most of modern history, she lays out valid reasons to understand and educate our sons and daughters in order to bring about equality in all aspects of our modern society.
Chadwick's writing is well-informed and professional, yet she is also downright hilarious. Her tongue-in-cheek comments about some of the most ridiculous misinformation that has been passed down to us through the centuries makes this book more than just a classic textbook reading. It is refreshing to read a book that is so important to our well-being yet brings to light the topics of female anatomy and sexuality in an eye-opening and interesting manner.
The Sweetness of Venus: A History of the Clitoris would make a great addition to high school (and probably middle school) sex education classes for it busts the myths that boys and girls and even men and women have been fed for a millennium, bringing to light the misconceptions perpetuated by the scientists, doctors, teachers, preachers, writers and artists who have come before us.
Extremely well-researched, Chadwick not only lays out the history of male vs female sexuality and how it has been perceived, taught, and hidden for literally centuries, but she also forces the reader to think about their own constructs. For a subject that has been considered taboo throughout most of modern history, she lays out valid reasons to understand and educate our sons and daughters in order to bring about equality in all aspects of our modern society.
Chadwick's writing is well-informed and professional, yet she is also downright hilarious. Her tongue-in-cheek comments about some of the most ridiculous misinformation that has been passed down to us through the centuries makes this book more than just a classic textbook reading. It is refreshing to read a book that is so important to our well-being yet brings to light the topics of female anatomy and sexuality in an eye-opening and interesting manner.
The Sweetness of Venus: A History of the Clitoris would make a great addition to high school (and probably middle school) sex education classes for it busts the myths that boys and girls and even men and women have been fed for a millennium, bringing to light the misconceptions perpetuated by the scientists, doctors, teachers, preachers, writers and artists who have come before us.
April 7, 2021
Oh, how I loved this book! Loved it so much I wrote a piece on it for Lippy Magazine. It was a real delight chatting to Sarah and graphic designer Eilidh about the future of the clitoris in design and within society. My full thoughts, and more insight into the process of translating this book from page to front cover can be found at www.lippymag.com.
My honest thoughts: Sarah has written such an intelligent, straight-talking book. A book that discusses a topic that truly matters! Read this book with a pen and a gin and tonic. Have a laugh with your friends about it. Find me talking to everyone I know about it.
My honest thoughts: Sarah has written such an intelligent, straight-talking book. A book that discusses a topic that truly matters! Read this book with a pen and a gin and tonic. Have a laugh with your friends about it. Find me talking to everyone I know about it.
April 5, 2021
A wonderful, entertaining read! I was surprised and astonished and informed about a subject that I admittedly did not know much about. The author tells this (much needed) history with a fresh and enthusiastic perspective. From reading The Sweetness of Venus, I so much feel better about talking about things with my own daughters (and the importance of talking!), and so much more informed about myself!
April 6, 2021
I found this book fascinating, entertaining and educational. I love the way Chadwick weaves history, popular culture, thoughtful reflection and humour into her writing. There's even a scene where she invites a group of 18th and 19th century female authors to tea to ask them about their craft and how they approached writing about sex. It's a triumph. Buy it for all your friends. They will enjoy the read and be blown away by how much there is to learn about female sexuality.
May 5, 2021
Chadwick has written the perfect book to chart not just the history of the clitoris, but also a wider look at female pleasure. It is jam-packed with great information about the body, very funny episodes about women trying to retain their sensuality, and is also properly funny and easy to read. Every woman will love this book, every man should read it, and every teenager of whatever gender should have a copy to equip them for a happy sex life.
October 30, 2021
As an sensual embodiment practitioner this book has become the holy grail of information to share with my students about how much baggage we women have inherited about our sensuality and sex that gets in the way of us stepping into our full pleasure.
This book has changed the way I teach and connect with people. It’s the permission to profoundly enjoy pleasure being aware of the artificial restrictions.
This book has changed the way I teach and connect with people. It’s the permission to profoundly enjoy pleasure being aware of the artificial restrictions.
April 21, 2021
“This book is an unexpectedly witty, fascinating and broad history. Don’t let the title make you anxious. So much learned and lots of fun. This book offers thought provoking growth and and much needed understanding for men and I would guess it feels supportive, educational and inspiring to women. ”
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August 6, 2021“A fun, straight-talking history of the clitoris, The Sweetness of Venus is a win for feminism.”
Reviewed for Foreword Reviews.
Reviewed for Foreword Reviews.
April 5, 2021
Fascinating - social history at its best. Some bits laugh out loud funny, huge amounts of research clearly done, and although this is at the academic end of the academic-to-smut scale, you don't realize how much you're learning as you whizz through it, it's so well written.
March 16, 2022
This is such an incredible read. For everyone that wants to know more about the clitoris, no matter what gender. Funny, honest, and packed full of important insights! Would definitely recommend to anyone curious about female sexuality!!!
February 22, 2021
Excellent read, the personal anecdotes and historical references really give this book a voice. The authors passion is extremely evident, and it definitely taught me a thing or two!
March 24, 2021
Amazing - very informative, witty, entertaining, and thought provoking. Definitely recommend to everyone!
May 4, 2021
Amazing love the premise. Well researched as well
February 18, 2022
AMAZING!!! This is everything we need in life. Educational yet completely witty and had me gripped from start to finish. If you yourself have a clitoris, or plan to engage with one, this is a must read! As a university student, I have learnt so much I didn’t know and have really loved to read about sex positivity and female pleasure! Buy this for your mums, dads, brothers, aunts, uncles, grandparents, friends and your dogs and cats at this point!
Say yay to the clitoris!
Love, Verity (Collingwood student)! X
Say yay to the clitoris!
Love, Verity (Collingwood student)! X
January 22, 2025
I enjoyed reading this book. It is well-written, informative, and witty for such a seemingly simple topic. A perfect pick-me-up for a lazy evening.
January 19, 2022
Sweet, sour and everything in between. I am gifting this book to everyone I know.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews