Xaviera Hollander

Xaviera Hollander is a Dutch author and former madam who gained international recognition for her 1971 memoir "The Happy Hooker: My Own Story." Born in 1943 in Japanese-occupied Dutch East Indies, she later became one of New York City's most prominent madams before being forced to leave the United States. After working as a secretary at the Dutch consulate in New York, Hollander entered the sex industry in 1968 and established the Vertical Whorehouse, a successful brothel operation. Her career in New York ended in 1971 when she was arrested for prostitution and subsequently deported. "The Happy Hooker," ghostwritten by Yvonne Dunleavy with Robin Moore, became an international bestseller and spawned several film adaptations. Following her literary success, Hollander went on to author multiple books and became involved in theater production in Amsterdam, where she continued to write and maintain a public presence. Her memoir offered a frank portrayal of sexuality and the sex industry during the sexual revolution of the 1970s, establishing her as a controversial yet influential figure in contemporary literature. The book's success led to numerous translations and established Hollander as a significant voice in discussions about sexuality and social mores.

Readers praise Hollander's direct, unapologetic writing style in "The Happy Hooker" and her matter-of-fact discussion of sexuality. Many cite the book's role in challenging 1970s social taboos. Multiple reviews note the memoir's humor and entertaining storytelling. Common criticisms focus on the dated views and attitudes, particularly regarding consent and gender roles. Some readers find the writing shallow or sensationalistic. Several reviews mention disappointment with the quality of later books in comparison to the original memoir. Ratings across platforms: - Goodreads: 3.6/5 (2,800+ ratings) - Amazon: 4.1/5 (900+ ratings) One reader on Goodreads wrote: "Raw and honest account of a fascinating life, though some parts haven't aged well." An Amazon reviewer noted: "The shock value has worn off, but the storytelling holds up." Later works like "Child No More" and "The Happy Hooker's Guide to Mind-Blowing Sex" receive lower ratings, averaging 2.5-3 stars across platforms.

The Happy Hooker: My Own Story (1971) A memoir detailing Hollander's journey from Dutch consulate secretary to becoming one of New York's most prominent madams in the late 1960s.

Letters to The Happy Hooker (1973) A collection of correspondence received by Hollander after the publication of her first book, including her responses and advice to readers.

The Happy Hooker Goes to Hollywood (1974) Hollander's account of her experiences during the film adaptation of her original memoir and her encounters in California.

Xaviera! (1975) Personal reflections and stories from Hollander's life after achieving international recognition from her first book.

Xaviera Goes Wild (1977) A collection of personal experiences and observations about sexuality and relationships in different cultures.

Xaviera's Fantastic Sex (1978) A guide to relationships and sexuality based on Hollander's experiences and correspondence with readers.

Xaviera's Magic Mushrooms (1981) Stories and anecdotes focused on Hollander's experiences with counterculture and alternative lifestyles.

Child No More (2002) A personal memoir focusing on Hollander's early life in Japanese-occupied Dutch East Indies and her relationship with her parents.

Anaïs Nin wrote intimate diaries and erotic literature during the mid-20th century that explored sexuality from a female perspective. Her works "Delta of Venus" and "Little Birds" share similar themes of sexual liberation and personal experience as Hollander's writings.

Catherine Millet authored "The Sexual Life of Catherine M," a memoir detailing her sexual experiences in France's libertine society. Her frank discussions of sexuality and personal encounters parallel Hollander's candid approach to writing about sex work and relationships.

Sydney Biddle Barrows wrote "Mayflower Madam," detailing her experiences running an escort service in New York City. Her insider perspective on the sex industry and legal challenges mirrors Hollander's own experiences as a madam.

Jeannette Angell published "Callgirl," a memoir about her life as both a college lecturer and call girl in Boston. Her dual-life narrative and examination of sex work stigma connects with themes in Hollander's writings.

Belle de Jour wrote "The Intimate Adventures of a London Call Girl," based on her experiences as a high-end escort while pursuing her education. Her blog-turned-book shares similarities with Hollander's style of combining personal narrative with commentary on the sex industry.