An essential collection of readings on cultural, social, and emotional understandings of the body Plastic surgery, obesity, anorexia, pregnancy, prescription drugs, disability, piercings, steroids, and sex re-assignment surgery: over the past two decades there have been major changes in the ways we understand, treat, alter, and care for our bodies. The Body Reader is a compelling, cutting-edge, and timely collection that provides a close look at the emergence of the study of the body. From prenatal genetic testing and “manscaping”; to televideo cybersex and the “meth economy,” this innovative work digs deep into contemporary lifestyles and current events to cover key concepts and theories about the body. A combination of twenty one classic readings and original essays, the contributors highlight gender, race, class, ability, and sexuality, paying special attention to bodies that are at risk, bodies that challenge norms, and media representations of the body. Ultimately, The Body Reader makes it clear that the body is not neutral—it is the entry point into cultural and structural relationships, emotional and subjective experiences, and the biological realms of flesh and bone. Contributors: Patricia Hill Collins, Karen Dias, H. Hugh Floyd, Jr., Arthur Frank, Sander L. Gilman, Gillian Haddow, Richard Huggins, Matthew Immergut, L:ea Kent, Kristen Karlberg, Steve Kroll-Smith, Mary Kosut, Jarvis Jay Masters, Lisa Jean Moore, Tracey Owens Patton, William J. Peace, Jason Pine, Eric Plemons, Barbara Katz Rothman, Edward Slavishak, Phillip Vannini, and Dennis Waskul.

“The spirit of search pervades the whole collection with recurring images of the poet looking through windows into vast expanses of landscape and seascape, into the Lion Mountains of his country, into its trees, listening to the sound of its rivers, its birds and its people. Gbanabom Hallowell is always conscious of his responsibility as a poet to his country.” Eldred Durosimi Jones, Editor, African Literature Today and author, Othello’s Countryme

This straightforward and illuminating guide offers self-care techniques—from skin care to stress relief—designed for modern men who want to live longer, look better, and feel calm, focused, and happy. Taking care of your mind, body, and soul is important to living a longer, more satisfying life and helps you feel confident in your daily interactions with others. In Self-Care for Men, author Garrett Munce—grooming editor for Esquire and Men’s Health and confirmed self-care practitioner—teaches you how to improve your physical and mental health and overall well-being through these easy and practical tips and exercises—from grooming to meditation—that are proven to work. Practiced by men like David Beckham, Snoop Dogg, and Adam Levine, self-care is a key component to overall wellness. This helpful guide introduces you to anti-aging products and practices, explains why masks are the HIIT workout of skincare, and shows you how to relax when you’re on the go. Offering advice on a range of topics from hair care, supplements, detoxing, the wonders of CBD, improving your energy levels, and more, Self-Care for Men will not only help you look and feel better, but live a happier, heathier, and more successful life.

Finally, the ultimate book of Jewish humor is here, complete with Jewish nursery blueprints (which includes a panic room, fireproof wallpaper, and a guardian ninja, of course), the top-ten list of Jewish 'dont's', the complete timeline of Jewish expulsion, and much, much more. Before creating Jewtopia the play in 2003, Bryan Fogel and Sam Wolfson were unemployed actors and writers who couldn't get a break. Taking matters into their own hands, they wrote a play, maxed out their credit cards, and mounted the production themselves. Jewtopia went on to become the longest-running original theatrical comedy in Los Angeles history. The show moved to off-Broadway in October 2004 and, as of the publication of this book, still plays nightly to sold-out audiences, with productions opening all over the world. Now, for the first time in this book, Fogel and Wolfson are bringing their theatrical work to the comfort of your home.

As the American mainstream tilts gradually right, Prickly City takes its place as a humorous voice for the masses. Creator Scott Stantis' first collection captures the issues and arguments of the George W. Bush political era era from the viewpoint of a little girl and a cute coyote. Never shy about commenting on sensitive and controversial political and social events, Prickly City is timely and humorous. This collection of the conservative strip draws from today's political current and gives readers plenty of reasons to laugh. Carmen, a straightforward, sensible kid, and her unlikely best friend, Winslow the innocent coyote pup, frolic and tussle in the American Southwest while discussing hot-button issues such as condoms in schools, violent video games, gay marriage, and highly contested presidential campaigns. As Carmen might say, "We may not be correct but we will always be right." Prickly City creator Scott Stantis has emerged as an up-and-coming conservative social and political voice.

You're all over the definitions of "low lights," "ruching," and a "tankini." But can you spot a "Mrs. Potato Head" when you see one? That's where The Chicktionary comes in. With the help of Anna Lefler and her collection of 450+ must-know words and phrases, you'll be in the know when faced with terms like Aberzombie, Bandeau, George Glass, and Puma. So whether you are dealing with a Residual Girlfriend, diagnose yourself with a bad case of Basset Knees, or need to go on a Briet, you'll be prepared for all that comes your way. At the very least, this book will serve as a delightful reminder that everyone has a skeleton in her closet--right next to her fat pants.

Step Into Confidence: How Swagger & Fresh Can Transform Your Teen Years Embark on a journey of transformation and self-discovery with Swagger & Fresh: Personal Hygiene for The Teenage Guy. This essential guidebook is tailored specifically for you, the modern teenage guy navigating the complexities of growing up. Packed with expert advice, practical tips, and easy-to-follow routines, this book is your roadmap to stepping into a world of confidence, one where you own your look and feel great about yourself. From mastering the basics of personal hygiene to advanced tips that catapult you into the realms of clear skin, fresh breath, and impeccable grooming, Swagger & Fresh covers it all. Understanding your body's changes is just the beginning. Learn how to establish daily routines that keep you fresh, dive deep into skincare secrets for fighting acne, and discover the ultimate oral health game plan. Tackle hair care like a pro, win the war against body odor, and ensure your nails reflect the care you take in your appearance. But it's not just about looking good–Swagger & Fresh teaches you how diet and exercise play pivotal roles in your personal hygiene. Plus, get the lowdown on dressing sharply while keeping your clothes smelling fresh, and learn the ins and outs of manscaping and grooming, including those often-forgotten areas like eyebrows, ears, and nose. With Swagger & Fresh, develop a personalized hygiene routine that's not only easy to follow but also exciting. Say goodbye to confusion and hello to clarity as you navigate the journey to becoming your best self. Unlock your potential, and embrace a future where you're not just fitting in, but standing out. After all, owning your look with confidence isn't just about the compliments–it's about how you feel inside. Whether you're looking to redefine your personal hygiene habits or simply refine them, Swagger & Fresh: Personal Hygiene for The Teenage Guy is the compass you need to guide you through the teenage years with ease, confidence, and, most importantly, style.

Five men from the hit show "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy" offer advice for making lifestyle changes in the categories of decorating, grooming, culinary, fashion, and culture.

Taking the concept of beauty seriously, this encyclopedia examines how humanity has sought and continues to seek what is "beautiful" in a variety of cultural contexts, giving readers an understanding of how to look at beauty both intellectually and critically. Is beauty ever more than "skin deep"? Arguably yes, considering that the concept of beauty—and the pursuit of it—has shaped cultures worldwide, across every time period, and has even served to change the course of history. Studying beauty practices yields insight into social status, wealth, political ideology, religious doctrine, and gender expectations, including gender nonconformity. A truly interdisciplinary text, Beauty around the World: A Cultural Encyclopedia presents an insightful perspective on beauty that draws from philosophy, literature, sociology, anthropology, psychology, and feminist studies, giving readers a unique view of world beauty practices. This volume offers information about beauty practices from the past to the present in alphabetical entries that address terms and topics such as "beards," "dreadlocks," "Geisha," "moko tattoos," and "progressive muscularity." Readers will better comprehend how beauty shapes many social interactions in profound ways worldwide, and that the unspoken social agreements that shape ideals of attractiveness and desirability within any given culture can matter very much. The encyclopedia's entries challenge readers to consider the questions "What is beauty?" and "Why does it matter?" A comprehensive bibliography is a valuable resource for further research.

Ever date a guy who only engages in Star Trek sex? I got the dish. Have you been mid-date when the guy literally runs away from you never looking back? Been there! Did you fart (or anal queef as I delicately try to euphemize it) in your boyfriend's face during your first rim job? I win.When we're children we are meticulously taught not to talk to strangers. Now as adults it seems as if that's all we do. Dating and the need to find someone special is a driving force in dulling down our "spidy-sense" allowing for frivolous interactions whether it's on the internet, a coffee date, or meeting a guy in a dark bar.But dating and relationships don't always play out so well.My stories (as well as my friends) are vignettes depicting the roller coaster ride of dating and relationship mishaps in my 20s and early 30s, which I chronicle on my blog "I Shaved My Ass for This?"Follow me into the hilarious and often shocking gay dating arena, which can be filled with bad decisions, angst, and sometimes even downright cruelty. These tales are to remind us that maybe our mothers were right in trying to paint the act of talking to strangers with such a cautionary hue.