The Edge of the Bed: How Dirty Pictures Changed My Life

by Lisa Palac, Susie Bright (Contributor)

Called "the queen of high-tech porn" by The New York Times, the author charts her errancy from Catholic schoolgirl to feminist advocate of pornography and explores the challenges faced by sexually provocative women. 20,000 first printing. Tour.

Genres: Sexuality, Nonfiction, Erotica, Biography, Memoir

224 pages, Hardcover

First published September 9, 1997

Reviews

[PirateSteve · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I never masturbated or had an orgasm until a vibrator fell on my head when I was twenty years old. I took it as a sign." Lisa Palac

[Christina M M Rau]

I don't think The Edge of the Bed is erotica though that's its category in several online bookstores. It discusses erotica, and is incredibly explicit, but those are anecdotes of a total picture. The picture is Palac's life. She's a writer and editor and has devoted her working life to developing a safe haven for erotica for women. She believes that women have a sexual side that should be celebrated. Showing off sexuality is not anti-feminist. Being a sexual person does not equate to being a deviant. Ah, if only my students knew that she writes about butt plugs in her other writings, perhaps they'd be more motivated to read her one-page essay.

[Martha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could be biased.

If the reader can relate to the book in so many levels it's understandable, right?

Having worked in a similar industry for a few years I couldn't help but snigger at some of the author's ... experiences and witty come backs. The Catholic school upbringing and confusing development of ideals is relatable as well.

I found the book really funny but that's just me. If you get easily offended or do not appreciate a dry sense of humour you might want to steer clear from this. I hope you don't.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I definitely recommend it. The author touches on almost every eye-opening point I was introduced to in undergrad regarding gender issues and feminism and sexuality.

[Grace Hannoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't put this down. Such an important book in a moment where gender/sexual politics are in the forefront of a lot of conversation. Lisa Palac is a bit ahead of her time in the 90s and her relevancy will carry on for years to come.

[Grace Carlsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

EVERYONE should read this book.

[Lynn Miner · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[Quinn Pierce · Rating 3 out of 5]

Plowed thru it in a day! Very interesting dive into pre 2000s women’s sexuality and eroticism. Definitely eye opening, and made me giggle quite a bit!

[Megan · Rating 2 out of 5]

Boring.
I could only make it half way through the book. She was pretty into herself and I couldn't make myself care about what she was saying.