The Best American Erotica 2001

As an "amatuer" erotica writer, I bought this book not only for some creative inspiration, but also to see what kind of material "published" erotica writers create. When I began reading this collection, I realized not only how talented these writers were, but that I still had a little ways to go as a "potential erotica writer." These stories run the gamut from straight, gay, bi, and whatever. Not only was I entertained, but also provided me with the inspiration I needed to create more of my own work, not to mention lots of new fantasies.From stories of "threesomes" to fantasy lovers to oral sex to working in a peep show and phone sex, they present a good view of sexuality. Unlike two or three other reviewers, I liked this collection of stories. While one or two may not have been to my specific interest, I recognized each work as good writing and story telling.

Each story in this multi-faceted volume stands alone as an interesting short piece. Short stories such as these, with no erotic content, would qualify for inclusion in a literary volume of quality short stories. This book explores human nature from many different perspectives, and on that single basis, is an interesting book.The erotic content only serves to allow readers to explore a part of human nature that is rarely discussed, except in clinical terms, demonized with a broad brush by those who fear it, caricatured by pornographers, or lampooned by comedians. Each author does a masterful job of illuminating feelings, experiences, and desires that generally remain hidden in Society's shadow.Some of the works are quite tittilating, others, shocking. Of course, that's a statement which tells more about me than about the book. Those seeking a blow by blow description of sex acts would do better with the latest issue of Penthouse. But if you'd like to explore human sexuality, to be teased, to push the envelope of the bourgeouis boudoir, then give this book a chance.(If you'd like to discuss this book or review further, please click on the "about me" link above and drop me an email. Thanks!)

Susie Bright rocks. I love the diversity in style reflected in this book, and also throughout the series. The well-written erotic short story is finally earning its respected place in literature.The subject matter Ms. Bright chose for this volume strikes me as quite physical (well, duh). In other words, it doesn't delve terribly deeply into the psychology and complexity of sex, at least not the deep, difficult aspects of it. Instead, it sticks more with a celebration of the physical, the erotic turn-ons, the encounters, the shock value and exploration, the acts themselves. Not that this is a problem, mind you; Susie Bright is my kind of editor, and it's obvious she loves her work. It's a wonderful anthology, and provides a lovely companion to magazines like _Nerve_.My only frustration is that the book is rather thin!

Best American Erotica 2001 is another great, thought provocking collection of short erotica from Susie Bright. As usual she provides a titilating mix of straight, gay and 'whatever' sexuality. This is a fantastic addition to anyones collection.

Some of these stories are gorgeous --Hanne Blank, Jack Murnighan, and "The Man Who Ate Woman" in particular. It's always fun when a new year comes out!