The Joy of Sex

Dr Alex Comfort, M.B., D.Sc., was a leading expert on human sexuality and one of the most versatile authors of the 20th century. A pioneer in the study of old age, co-founder of the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament, anarchist, social commentator, novelist, and poet, he wrote over 50 books and countless scientific papers. Dr Comfort also worked as head of research on gerontology at University College London, a lecturer at the Department of Psychiatry at Stanford University, and Adjunct Professor at the Neuropsychiatric Institute at the University of California at Los Angeles. A member of the Royal Society of Medicine and an Associate Member of the American Psychiatric Association, he died in March 2000, aged 80. Susan Quilliam is a psychologist specialising in intimate relationships and with over 35 years' experience in offering relationship support through her work as a writer, coach, trainer, consultant and commentator. She once said in passing that the high point of her relationship writing would be to be asked to rewrite "The Joy of Sex" for the 21st century, and therefore felt beyond privileged when, in 2008, Mitchell Beazley asked her to do just that! Susan works closely with Relate and the Family Planning Association, as well as sitting on the Editorial Committee of the global Journal of Family Planning and Reproductive Health, and on the Advisory Boards of the Sexual Advice Association, Women's Health Concern and the Open University Enduring Love? project. She is also one of the Family Planning Association's designated 21st Century Achievers and has won awards for her work on health campaigns. When not writing books, Susan coaches individuals and couples on relationships and sexuality, as well as being advice columnist for several health websites, magazines, broadcasting on radio and television, and presenting internationally on topics surrounding love and sex.