Finding Normal: Sex, Love, and Taboo in Our Hyperconnected World by Alexa Tsoulis-Reay is a journalist’s exploration on how different people use the internet to find their community. Alexa finds people who identify in a variety of ways that are different from sexual norms. The book is based on a collection of candid interview series conducted for a popular magazine.
The book was interesting because each chapter was based on a different identity. The chapters were interesting to read even though I couldn’t relate to any of the people. I like that the author allowed each person to tell their story and then shared her assessment. I at first felt disgusted by some of the behavior but then I try to reign in my emotions and realize that sometimes, the people sharing their story do not want to be that way or I should be more empathetic and more open minded towards them.
The book is split into two sections. The first section has mild taboo behaviors like asexuality, multiple partners, and age difference while the second half of the book might not be for everyone as it has more “extreme” ones. I thought the book was well researched and written. I would be open to reading more articles or books by the author.
