Opening Up

Opening Up presents an exploration of consensual non-monogamy through research, interviews, and real-world examples. The book serves as a guide for people interested in ethical non-monogamous relationships and alternative relationship structures. The text covers various forms of open relationships, including polyamory, swinging, and other non-traditional arrangements. Taormino includes practical advice about communication, boundary-setting, jealousy management, and building healthy relationship dynamics across multiple partners. Through case studies and personal accounts, the book examines how different individuals and groups navigate the challenges and benefits of non-monogamous lifestyles. The author addresses common misconceptions and provides tools for those considering or practicing consensual non-monogamy. The book offers a framework for understanding relationship diversity while challenging conventional assumptions about love, commitment, and partnership. It contributes to ongoing discussions about relationship freedom and the evolving nature of modern intimacy.

Readers consider this a practical guide to non-monogamy that balances theory with real-world examples. The inclusion of diverse relationship styles and extensive interviews gives readers multiple perspectives to consider. Liked: - Clear writing style and organization - Real case studies from various relationship structures - Non-judgmental tone - Concrete advice for communication and boundaries - Addresses common problems and pitfalls Disliked: - Some sections feel repetitive - Limited coverage of asexual/aromantic relationships - Focus on sexual non-monogamy over emotional - Interviews can run long - Dated cultural references (published 2008) Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (4,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (890+ ratings) Reader quote: "Offers practical tools without prescribing a one-size-fits-all approach. The case studies helped me understand different ways people make open relationships work." - Goodreads reviewer "Too much emphasis on sex and not enough on emotional dynamics" - Amazon reviewer

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🔸 Tristan Taormino interviewed over 100 polyamorous people over two years to gather real-life experiences and insights for this book. 🔸 The book introduced one of the first comprehensive frameworks for categorizing different styles of non-monogamous relationships, which is still widely referenced today. 🔸 Author Tristan Taormino is also an adult film director and created the first line of feminist adult films for Vivid Entertainment. 🔸 "Opening Up" has been translated into five languages and has sold over 100,000 copies since its publication in 2008. 🔸 The book was groundbreaking in addressing non-monogamy from a practical rather than purely theoretical perspective, including chapters on raising children, managing jealousy, and navigating legal issues.