ID: The words Book Report at the top beside an image of a book and the Learning to be Flexible logo. Beneath is the title, “A Quick and Easy Guide to Sex and Disability- A. Andrews.”
A Quick Guide to Sex & Disability aims to explore the intersection of disability and sex. With clear definitions of disability, sexuality, contraceptives, sex toys, and positional furniture, this book is a must read. The “disabled cartoonist” author, A. Andrews (they/them), tackles subjects that are relevant to anyone engaging in sex, while taking time to dive into disability specific tips and information. Truly inclusive
, this book is written for all ages, sexualities, genders, disabilities/abilities, and desires. A Quick Guide to Sex & Disability is an important addition to the disability genre.
Andrews offers simple and direct information to make the many aspects of disabled sexuality easier and more enjoyable. The topics covered include disability sexuality, myths about disabled bodies, communication, self care plans, positioning, and aftercare. This book emphasizes using positional furniture, sex toys, and communication to have the sex you’re desiring. Andrews offers ways to integrate aspects of sexuality such as self care, aftercare, and communication into your daily life.
This book is full of practical advice, definitions, and a primer on disability wrapped up in sex positivity and approached from a place of joy and pleasure. Andrews breaks down myths about disabled bodies with compassion and understanding. They remind us that “Beyond being possible, sex for all bodies can be fun!” The book emphasizes listening to our bodies and letting them guide us- even when dealing with limitations. Andrews acknowledges that some of us may have complicated relationships with different parts of our bodies. They encourage people to move towards pleasure instead of away from fear or pain.
Communication is essential for good sex. As Andrews says, “The key to great sex, for literally everyone, is communication.” This book provides some simple communication examples that highlight common ableist missteps and offers alternatives. It highlights consent and how to reframe questions more inclusively. Andrews also explores the very personal relationship between sexuality and self. The book contains two pages labeled “Activity Time” that helps us explore our own needs, desires, feelings, and thoughts about sex. With prompts like: “Things about sex that make me feel excited,” “Parts of my body that are off-limits,” and “A thing I might need help with,” it’s a great opportunity to connect or reconnect with yourself.
Personally, seeing myself in cartoon form was wild. As a non-binary, disabled person, representation can be scarce. Seeing images of people with crutches and scars and all types of beautiful trans and cis bodies made me feel seen. I saw my partner, family, and friends in the images of fat, queer, POC, and disabled bodies. Andrews’ illustrations add so much, it’s hard to explain. They offer the information in such a simple, clear voice that you’ve read the whole book before you realize it. I ended up reading it cover to cover three times in a row! Reading this book was informative and welcoming, interesting and straightforward. Get a copy and check it out for yourself.
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