Peggy Orenstein's Girls & Sex is lauded for its insightful exploration of female sexuality amid societal pressures, offering a candid look at the experiences of young women. Reviewers commend its thorough research and empathetic narrative, though some criticize its anecdotal focus and lack of diverse perspectives. A vital read for understanding modern sexual dynamics.

Readers who appreciated Reviving Ophelia by Mary Pipher or Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski will find Girls & Sex by Peggy Orenstein insightful. Ideal for parents, educators, and those interested in female adolescent sexuality, this book combines research with interviews to explore the complexities young women face today.

In Girls & Sex, Peggy Orenstein investigates the sexual lives of adolescent girls by interviewing over 70 young women and consulting with psychologists and experts. She explores themes such as self-objectification, contemporary sexual practices, the notion of virginity, hookup culture, the experiences of queer girls, and issues of sexual assault and consent. Orenstein suggests improvements in sex education by looking at successful programs in the Netherlands. The book includes explicit stories of sexual behavior and sexual assault.

Informative / Challenging / Emotional / Contemplative / Unnerving

- Peggy Orenstein conducted in-depth interviews with dozens of young women across the United States while researching for Girls & Sex, providing a diverse range of perspectives on contemporary teenage sexuality.
- Girls & Sex explores how modern media and cultural narratives shape young women's perceptions of their bodies and relationships, offering unique insights into the impact of these factors.
- Orenstein has been recognized for her ability to engage with complex social issues and present them in an accessible manner, which is evident in the nuanced analysis found in Girls & Sex.

Peggy Orenstein

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Overview

Get ready to explore Girls & Sex and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Girls & Sex Summary and Study Guide

Background

Girls & Sex Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Introduction

Girls & Sex Introduction Summary & Analysis

Chapter 1 Girls & Sex Chapter 1 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 2: “Are We Having Fun Yet?

Chapter 2 Girls & Sex Chapter 2 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 3: “Like a Virgin, Whatever That Is”

Chapter 3 Girls & Sex Chapter 3 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 4 Girls & Sex Chapter 4 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 5: “Out: Online and IRL”

Chapter 5 Girls & Sex Chapter 5  Summary & Analysis

Chapter 6: “Blurred Lines, Take Two”

Chapter 6 Girls & Sex Chapter 6 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 7: “What If We Told Them the Truth”

Chapter 7 Girls & Sex Chapter 7 Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

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Themes

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Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

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Girls & Sex Further Reading & Resources

Girls & Sex: Navigating the Complicated New Landscape

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

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Who Should Read Girls & Sex?

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Book Details