SM Classics

When your local university starts offering Leather 101, this will be the textbook. _SM Classics_ is the essence of our tribal wisdom: philosophy, psychology, neurology, history and how-to; plus a fillip of fiction. It's a first step in organizing leather lore into literature and a powerful tool for defining ourselves and defending our right to be who we are.Everything is here, from the basic (spanking, flagellation and bondage) to the sophisticated (electricity and body play), from censorship to coming out, from porn to politics. _SM Classics_ is a sterling example of the under-appreciated art of the editor, the art of focus; Wright's selections are invariably practical, readable, chock-full and fascinating. This volume is not only an ideal introduction for the novice and a vital refresher course for the experienced, but an invaluable reference, the trunk of a tree that you can climb forever. The branches are the books from which these selections have been drawn, the references cited after the more scholarly articles, the list of scene-related publishers and organizations, and, most important, the seventy-four page Select Bibliography that provides a treasure trove of other works by the distinguished contributors, including material posted on the Web -- like getting another book free. Wright also thoughtfully provides thumbnail biographies of the authors. These portraits taken together make a powerful statement about the unity-in-diversity of the leather world. Her authors are all acknowledged experts, patient teachers, and practiced writers whose dedication to clarity and communication makes every page a rewarding experience.