A Practical Guide to Sex by Meg-John Barker and Justin Hancock

Short Summary

A Practical Guide to Sex by Meg-John Barker and Justin Hancock is a modern, inclusive, and thoughtful guide to understanding sex, consent, and relationships. Rather than focusing on the mechanics of sex, it helps readers reflect on what sex means to them and how to build healthy, consensual, and enjoyable experiences.

Age Group

Suitable for children aged 16 to 18 years.

Topics Discussed

Sex | Teenagers

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Buy a copy of A Practical Guide to Sex by Meg-John Barker and Justin Hancock from Amazon.

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What this book is about

  • A Practical Guide to Sex takes a fresh, inclusive approach to talking about sex. It’s not a “how-to” manual – it’s about exploring what you actually want from sex and relationships.
  • The authors, Meg-John Barker and Justin Hancock, are well-known educators in the field of sexuality. Barker writes extensively on gender and identity, while Hancock runs the brilliant BISH UK website for teens and parents.
  • The updated purple edition builds on the original content, with some newer sections on communication and consent.
  • The book begins by unpacking the messages we receive about sex – from culture, media, and peers – and helps readers question what feels right for them.
  • It covers self-care, body awareness, desire, and sexual diversity in a warm, non-judgemental way.
  • Relationships are explored through the lens of mutual respect and emotional connection, emphasising that sex should come from genuine choice, not pressure.
  • Consent is a major focus. A full quarter of the book is dedicated to explaining how consent is an ongoing process – something that happens through communication, not just a one-off “yes.”
  • The tone is inclusive, kind, and realistic, acknowledging that sex can be awkward, funny, confusing, and beautiful all at once.
  • It’s best suited to older teens, young adults, or parents who want to refresh their own understanding of modern, values-based sexuality education.
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I hope you find this book review helpful!

Happy talking!
❤️ Cath

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Cath Hakanson is a qualified family sex educator, sexual health nurse and author with 30+ years of clinical and education experience. As an AuDHD parent of two neurodivergent children, she creates clear, practical sex ed resources that help parents talk about bodies, puberty, consent, porn, relationships and sex without shame or judgement.