The next time you hear someone wondering aloud about what lesbians do in bed, slap them over the head with a copy of Felice Newman's The Whole Lesbian Sex Book. That'll show 'em. And before you say: "Wait a minute, didn't that book come out a few years ago?" the answer is yes, and now Newman's updated it, making it a resource that's bigger and better than ever.

Writing a guide to lesbian sex has got to be part labour of love and part, well, plain labour. This new edition of the book is nearly 100 pages bigger than its predecessor. That's a lot of sex. Luckily Newman has the skills to break down what could be an overwhelming onslaught of information into nice bite-sized pieces. Really, this book is a joy to read, it's so moreish.

The Whole Lesbian Sex Book is very much a comprehensive resource. It's not a sex book and it's not designed to get you off (though it might). Instead, it's all about making sex enjoyable through sharing information. It's educational without being condescending, there's no fanfare, just practical, non-judgmental advice and personal testimonies, not to mention Fish's excellent illustrations.

So what's new in this edition? Newman tells us where to find sex partners, and how to talk to your lovers about sex. There's an expanded chapter on Tantra, G-spot orgasms, multiple orgasms, extended orgasms, and ejaculation. The Whole Lesbian Sex Book also focuses on the challenges of sex in long-term relationships. It's got expert how-to information on cunnilingus, anal sex, vaginal fisting, and other favourite lesbian sex techniques, plus tips on how to get the most out of your sex toys. There's a massive resource section as well as timely discussions of the effects of perimenopause, menopause and SSRIs on the lesbian libido. In short, it's good.

Actually, it's better than good. The sheer scope of The Whole Lesbian Sex Book is mind-boggling, from the How To of Breast Play to its trans-friendly inclusion; the piece on the prostate as G-spot in post-operative male to female transsexuals is worth the cover price alone. But maybe lesbian (and bi, and trans) sex is becoming too big a subject to be encompassed in one book. At its current rate of expansion The Whole Lesbian Sex Book will need its own special trolly to cart it around on by the time it reaches edition four or five.

Furthermore, although it's a book intended for bisexual readers, there isn't very much within it that deals with male-female sex. This brings up the question of where this book's own boundaries lie, since human sexuality is a messy thing that's not always so easily compartmentalised into neat little boxes. Will The Whole Lesbian Sex Book sustain itself in the long term or will it become irrelevant as the categories blur?

I hope not. If anything it's the kind of book that could teach many common or garden sex manuals about how to go about explaining the mysteries of sex in an open and adult way. Sure, some of the content is a little too American for some people's tastes, but that's a minor complaint. This book is essential and if you don't already own a copy, you should do.

The Whole Lesbian Sex Book: A Passionate Guide for All of Us by Felice Newman
Published by: Cleis Press
ISBN: 1573441996
Price: £15.99

Buy The Whole Lesbian Sex Book. Get it online and save money!