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Strange Bedfellows: Adventures in the Science, History, and Surprising Secrets of STDs Hardcover – February 2, 2021
by Ina Park (Author)
4.7 out of 5 stars 135 ratings
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With curiosity and wit, Strange Bedfellows rips back the bedsheets to expose what really happens when STDs enter the sack.
Sexually transmitted diseases have been hidden players in our lives for the whole of human history, with roles in everything from World War II to the growth of the Internet to The Bachelor. But despite their prominence, STDs have been shrouded in mystery and taboo for centuries, which begs the question: why do we know so little about them?
Enter Ina Park, MD, who has been pushing boundaries to empower and inform others about sexual health for decades. With Strange Bedfellows, she ventures far beyond the bedroom to examine the hidden role and influence of these widely misunderstood infections and share their untold stories.
Covering everything from AIDS to Zika, Park explores STDs on the cellular, individual, and population-level. She blends science and storytelling with historical tales, real life sexual escapades, and interviews with leading scientists―weaving in a healthy dose of hilarity along the way.
The truth is, most of us are sexually active, yet we’re often unaware of the universe of microscopic bedfellows inside our pants. Park aims to change this by bringing knowledge to the masses in an accessible, no-nonsense, humorous way―helping readers understand the broad impact STDs have on our lives, while at the same time erasing the unfair stigmas attached to them.
A departure from the cone of awkward silence and shame that so often surrounds sexual health, Strange Bedfellows is the straight-shooting book about the consequences of sex that all curious readers have been looking for.
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Print length 368 pages
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Editorial Reviews
"Strange Bedfellows―a book about how infections and viruses spread―is incredibly relevant to our time. But it is so much more than that: it’s about desire, it’s about history, it’s about humanity itself. Ina Park reveals the mystery and fascination inherent in STDs and, improbably, she does it while being laugh-out-loud funny."
―Peggy Orenstein, author of the New York Times bestsellers Boys and Sex and Girls and Sex
"Ina Park is a seasoned expert with a finely calibrated sense of the absurd. In other words, she is exactly who you want writing a book about STDs. The science is here, but so too are the stories and people behind it. Park has a mission―to break down the stigma and clear the way for open conversation and wider funding. She's a hero and a hoot!"
―Mary Roach, author of the New York Times bestsellers Bonk and Stiff
"Dr. Ina Park’s passion for her subject is contagious. With gripping stories and the right dose of wit, Strange Bedfellows uncovers the wily world of microbes and reveals the shocking history of sexually transmitted diseases. Plus, Dr. Park is funny. You’ll LOL as she ventures into topics most of us consider TMI. She answers every question you ever had about infections down there and even those you never thought to ask."
―Randi Hutter Epstein MD, MPH, author of Aroused
"With wisdom and wit, passion and dispassion, Park uses case narratives and deep clinical knowledge to inform her readers of the importance of sexually transmitted infections. Rescuing these infections from silence and stigma, she offers clear and effective approaches to prevention and treatment for patients and the public."
―Allan M. Brandt, Kass Professor of the History of Medicine at Harvard University and author of No Magic Bullet
"Strange Bedfellows is so much more than a fresh take on the biggest issues of 2021. It’s joyful and funny . . . Great writing about sex meets readers where they are, and it invites them through the door of evidence-based sex education, into a world where shame simply can’t exist. Park uses science, compassion, humor, diverse stories, and examples of her own shame-free living to take the stigma out of these infections."
―The New York Times
"Fans of witty, meticulously researched chronicles of intriguing popular science topics―think Mary Roach―will devour this fluid mixture of scholarship and levity. A fresh, funny, sex-positive book that effectively destigmatizes sexual disease."
―Kirkus, starred review
"Informative and frank, Park’s account of sex and STDs is ideal both for the curious and for those too embarrassed to ask."
―Publishers Weekly
"A thoughtful, informative account for readers interested in public health and sexual health as well as those with an interest in the history of medicine. Park brings the right amount of care to an often-stigmatized subject."
―Library Journal
"Through intriguing anecdotes, [Park] covers the science behind the treatment and prevention of STIs."
―Scientific American
"Park is a woman with a mission: to destigmatise STIs, while engaging her readers through the fascinating stories she has heard or experienced first-hand during her career, together with her inimitable sense of humour . . . The humour and charm of Strange Bedfellows will surely help to break the cone of awkward silence and shame surrounding the topic among its readers, providing a seemingly unending array of interesting conversation starters for those brave enough to take the first step."
―Lancet
"From HPV (human papillomavirus) to syphilis to HIV to homely old genital herpes, [Strange Bedfellows] probes into every cranny of its many subjects, and Park writes about all of it with a commonizing touch that’s wonderfully inviting."
―Open Letters Review
About the Author
INA PARK MD, MS, is a professor at the University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, Medical Consultant at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of STD Prevention, and Medical Director of the California Prevention Training Center. She holds degrees from the University of California Berkeley, UCLA School of Medicine, and the University of Minnesota School of Public Health. Recently, Park served as a co-author of the 2020 CDC STD Treatment Guidelines and contributor to the Department of Health and Human Services STI Federal Action Plan. A fierce advocate for public health, she lives in Berkeley, CA with her husband and two sons.
Product details
Publisher : Flatiron Books; 1st edition (February 2, 2021)
Language : English
Hardcover : 368 pages
Dimensions : 5.64 x 1.22 x 8.82 inchesBest Sellers Rank: #703,113 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)#71 in Genitourinary Infections & STDs
#430 in Communicable Diseases (Books)
#2,456 in Sex & SexualityCustomer Reviews:
4.7 out of 5 stars 135 ratings
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Ina Park
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4.7 out of 5 stars
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public health ina park sexually transmitted std and hiv must read anyone interested personal stories sexual health park is a great read by the author fun to read incredible book great read read this book book park sti stis humor funny entertaining
Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
Melissa
5.0 out of 5 stars Wickedly smart
Reviewed in the United States on July 6, 2022
Verified Purchase
If you’ve ever been curious about the field of STDs, this book is a must read. Park takes complicated material about biology, disease transmission, sexual networks, contact tracing, diagnosis and treatment obstacles, etc., and makes it digestible, relevant, and amusing for the reader. You’ll be fascinated and entertained for sure!
I.M.
5.0 out of 5 stars Couldn’t put the book downReviewed in the United States on May 15, 2021
Verified Purchase
I read an interview with the author and my interest was piqued. Now, I never thought I’d be interested in a book on this subject matter but, the interview intrigued me enough to give it a try. I downloaded a sample of the book to see if it’s really as entertaining and informative as the interviewer made it out to be. I’m really happy to say it is. The sample was proof that I would probably get through a decent portion of the book, but that’s not what happened. I actually got through the entire book and quickly. I really couldn’t put it down. It doesn’t just tell you what the STIs are, what to do and use to protect from them, but she gives the history behind each one, along with very funny and sometimes heartbreaking anecdotal stories. She makes the subject matter really fascinating with her knowledge, wit and humor. I want to add I was kind of sad when I finished it because it really is that good. You can tell she loves her work, and she really wants to help people.
BTW, I’d love to see what kind of “how to talk to your teens about sex and STIs” book this author can come up with. I’m sure it would be thoughtful, sensitive, respectful, brilliant and entertaining.
Pahmela
5.0 out of 5 stars Wow I think you will be surprised and shockedReviewed in the United States on February 8, 2022
Verified Purchase
I don’t believe I can give any other book at this time a higher praise. I was absolutely amazed at all the facts and statistics and I have to acknowledge I was very unaware of all the possibilities of getting STI‘s.
Just having the knowledge to know what to look out for and how to take care of something if you do get it, and not to be ashamed or shame others is so enlightening. In my opinion, it is worth every penny. This one is going directly onto my coffee table.
CLAIRE F CHEN
5.0 out of 5 stars Great read for young adults heading off to the world...Reviewed in the United States on January 10, 2022
Verified Purchase
Read the book and then gifted it to a young friend heading to college. Helps them understand that sexual relations can result in some unintended and consequences that no one wants to talk about, but should! The fascinating info that Dr. Park provides is full off humor and levity (while remaining factually correct/relevant) and comes with zero-dose of stigma and judgement. The chapter on pubic hair (or none, thereof) is worth the price of this book. I think high school sex-educators should also consider reading and recommending this book.
Larry Smith
5.0 out of 5 stars Funny and fascinatingReviewed in the United States on February 7, 2021
Verified Purchase
I strongly recommend this book. While you might think this is just for people at risk for acquiring a sexually transmitted infection (STI), or who have already acquired a sexually transmitted disease (STD), you’d be wrong. I found this book funny and fascinating, and I am 74 years old in a 50+ year monogamous relationship! Dr. Park draws you into her world with her personal stories, and then proceeds to educate you about the history, the science, the clinical aspects, and the social aspects of STIs. I learned a lot and had fun doing it. This is an important topic, not just for your own personal health, but also for being better informed about the risks that may be affecting your loved ones, and for public policy, so go ahead and read it.
8 people found this helpful
Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Incredible Book! Looking forward to future books by author.Reviewed in the United States on February 24, 2021
Verified Purchase
I could not put this book down!
As someone who has worked in Women's/ Sexual Health, I was pleasantly surprised to find new content and was able to learn something new after all this time. The writing was great, the jokes on point (actually found myself giggling on the train as I read this!), and the information is related to the reader in such a way that it is understandable but not watered or dumbed down. This book truly has something for everyone- from the seasoned health professional to someone who is merely curious about the topic.
This book has earned a permanent place on my shelf!
2 people found this helpful
Amazon customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Engaging and InformativeReviewed in the United States on February 19, 2021
Verified Purchase
As someone who works in the STI/Public Health arena I have only praise for this extraordinary book. Bravo Dr. Ina Park for sharing your incredible clinical expertise, your humor and above all your humanity with us. This book is an amazing guide for those interested in learning about STIs and the researches/clinicians/ public health workers who have dedicated their lives to this field. Dr. Park’s storytelling skills transform complex concepts into readily understandable content and relatable stories. Add to that a sprinkling of humor and personal anecdotes and you have a book that you won’t want to put down. Thank you Ina!!!
5 people found this helpful
Pam Smith
5.0 out of 5 stars Totally Engaging Book!!Reviewed in the United States on February 16, 2021
Verified Purchase
I have learned so much from reading this book and completely enjoyed it in the process! The author uses so many human inteest anecdotes and so much humor that it is a true pleasure to read. Of course there is a lot of valuable information in this book as well. I am in my seventies and have been married twice but believe me I learned a lot from this book. This is a fabulous book for anyone interested in STIs but wanting to steer clear of a boring textbook. You will not regret buying this book!!
4 people found this helpful
Theresa B
5.0 out of 5 stars Humorous and interestingReviewed in the United Kingdom on October 29, 2021
Verified Purchase
I originally bought this book for my nieces in their late teens/early twenties, and wanted to skim briefly through it, to see if it is appropriate. I ended up reading it myself, as I couldn't put it down. The topic relates to my own profession, and I therefore thought it would be much too boring for myself and I would not learn anything new - nevertheless, I did - the book is very well researched, well structured and written in a humorous way so that it does not get boring. For some topics it gives a brief history of the particular STI and then shows recent trends - but all of this is linked to the experiences of an individual persons, e.g. a doctor/front line worker or STI researcher and partly also some individual patients.
The only thing I personally found might put some people (younger people, who do not have children, as they cannot see how this relates to the topic, and parents if they imagine it too vividly) off from proceeding with reading it was the beginning, as it is a bit distressing - her son being rolled over by a car - although it generally a nice way to explain why the book has been written and it is only like a brief introduction.
I still give the book five stars and would like to thank the author, who I think is absolutely brilliant!
S. J. Harman
5.0 out of 5 stars Funny, informative and a great way to raise awareness and destigmatise STIsReviewed in the United Kingdom on February 26, 2021
Verified Purchase
This book is a wonderful combination of science and storytelling, illustrated with tales from the sexual health community and Ina's own experience as a clinician. There's a strong message on the need to address stigma and shame, and some hilarious tales about pubic lice. If I had kids in their teens I'd make them read this.
cori
5.0 out of 5 stars Love itReviewed in Canada on October 30, 2021
Verified Purchase
Super interesting and informative, written in a non- judgmental way on what can be a touchy subject. I couldn’t put it down!
BB
5.0 out of 5 stars Awesome bookReviewed in Canada on October 15, 2021
Verified Purchase
So good I bought the physical book after getting the audiobook!
Funny, informative, and full of empathy!
Report abuse
See all reviews
Verified Purchase
If you’ve ever been curious about the field of STDs, this book is a must read. Park takes complicated material about biology, disease transmission, sexual networks, contact tracing, diagnosis and treatment obstacles, etc., and makes it digestible, relevant, and amusing for the reader. You’ll be fascinated and entertained for sure!
I.M.
5.0 out of 5 stars Couldn’t put the book downReviewed in the United States on May 15, 2021
Verified Purchase
I read an interview with the author and my interest was piqued. Now, I never thought I’d be interested in a book on this subject matter but, the interview intrigued me enough to give it a try. I downloaded a sample of the book to see if it’s really as entertaining and informative as the interviewer made it out to be. I’m really happy to say it is. The sample was proof that I would probably get through a decent portion of the book, but that’s not what happened. I actually got through the entire book and quickly. I really couldn’t put it down. It doesn’t just tell you what the STIs are, what to do and use to protect from them, but she gives the history behind each one, along with very funny and sometimes heartbreaking anecdotal stories. She makes the subject matter really fascinating with her knowledge, wit and humor. I want to add I was kind of sad when I finished it because it really is that good. You can tell she loves her work, and she really wants to help people.
BTW, I’d love to see what kind of “how to talk to your teens about sex and STIs” book this author can come up with. I’m sure it would be thoughtful, sensitive, respectful, brilliant and entertaining.
Pahmela
5.0 out of 5 stars Wow I think you will be surprised and shockedReviewed in the United States on February 8, 2022
Verified Purchase
I don’t believe I can give any other book at this time a higher praise. I was absolutely amazed at all the facts and statistics and I have to acknowledge I was very unaware of all the possibilities of getting STI‘s.
Just having the knowledge to know what to look out for and how to take care of something if you do get it, and not to be ashamed or shame others is so enlightening. In my opinion, it is worth every penny. This one is going directly onto my coffee table.
CLAIRE F CHEN
5.0 out of 5 stars Great read for young adults heading off to the world...Reviewed in the United States on January 10, 2022
Verified Purchase
Read the book and then gifted it to a young friend heading to college. Helps them understand that sexual relations can result in some unintended and consequences that no one wants to talk about, but should! The fascinating info that Dr. Park provides is full off humor and levity (while remaining factually correct/relevant) and comes with zero-dose of stigma and judgement. The chapter on pubic hair (or none, thereof) is worth the price of this book. I think high school sex-educators should also consider reading and recommending this book.
Larry Smith
5.0 out of 5 stars Funny and fascinatingReviewed in the United States on February 7, 2021
Verified Purchase
I strongly recommend this book. While you might think this is just for people at risk for acquiring a sexually transmitted infection (STI), or who have already acquired a sexually transmitted disease (STD), you’d be wrong. I found this book funny and fascinating, and I am 74 years old in a 50+ year monogamous relationship! Dr. Park draws you into her world with her personal stories, and then proceeds to educate you about the history, the science, the clinical aspects, and the social aspects of STIs. I learned a lot and had fun doing it. This is an important topic, not just for your own personal health, but also for being better informed about the risks that may be affecting your loved ones, and for public policy, so go ahead and read it.
8 people found this helpful
Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Incredible Book! Looking forward to future books by author.Reviewed in the United States on February 24, 2021
Verified Purchase
I could not put this book down!
As someone who has worked in Women's/ Sexual Health, I was pleasantly surprised to find new content and was able to learn something new after all this time. The writing was great, the jokes on point (actually found myself giggling on the train as I read this!), and the information is related to the reader in such a way that it is understandable but not watered or dumbed down. This book truly has something for everyone- from the seasoned health professional to someone who is merely curious about the topic.
This book has earned a permanent place on my shelf!
2 people found this helpful
Amazon customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Engaging and InformativeReviewed in the United States on February 19, 2021
Verified Purchase
As someone who works in the STI/Public Health arena I have only praise for this extraordinary book. Bravo Dr. Ina Park for sharing your incredible clinical expertise, your humor and above all your humanity with us. This book is an amazing guide for those interested in learning about STIs and the researches/clinicians/ public health workers who have dedicated their lives to this field. Dr. Park’s storytelling skills transform complex concepts into readily understandable content and relatable stories. Add to that a sprinkling of humor and personal anecdotes and you have a book that you won’t want to put down. Thank you Ina!!!
5 people found this helpful
Pam Smith
5.0 out of 5 stars Totally Engaging Book!!Reviewed in the United States on February 16, 2021
Verified Purchase
I have learned so much from reading this book and completely enjoyed it in the process! The author uses so many human inteest anecdotes and so much humor that it is a true pleasure to read. Of course there is a lot of valuable information in this book as well. I am in my seventies and have been married twice but believe me I learned a lot from this book. This is a fabulous book for anyone interested in STIs but wanting to steer clear of a boring textbook. You will not regret buying this book!!
4 people found this helpful
Theresa B
5.0 out of 5 stars Humorous and interestingReviewed in the United Kingdom on October 29, 2021
Verified Purchase
I originally bought this book for my nieces in their late teens/early twenties, and wanted to skim briefly through it, to see if it is appropriate. I ended up reading it myself, as I couldn't put it down. The topic relates to my own profession, and I therefore thought it would be much too boring for myself and I would not learn anything new - nevertheless, I did - the book is very well researched, well structured and written in a humorous way so that it does not get boring. For some topics it gives a brief history of the particular STI and then shows recent trends - but all of this is linked to the experiences of an individual persons, e.g. a doctor/front line worker or STI researcher and partly also some individual patients.
The only thing I personally found might put some people (younger people, who do not have children, as they cannot see how this relates to the topic, and parents if they imagine it too vividly) off from proceeding with reading it was the beginning, as it is a bit distressing - her son being rolled over by a car - although it generally a nice way to explain why the book has been written and it is only like a brief introduction.
I still give the book five stars and would like to thank the author, who I think is absolutely brilliant!
S. J. Harman
5.0 out of 5 stars Funny, informative and a great way to raise awareness and destigmatise STIsReviewed in the United Kingdom on February 26, 2021
Verified Purchase
This book is a wonderful combination of science and storytelling, illustrated with tales from the sexual health community and Ina's own experience as a clinician. There's a strong message on the need to address stigma and shame, and some hilarious tales about pubic lice. If I had kids in their teens I'd make them read this.
cori
5.0 out of 5 stars Love itReviewed in Canada on October 30, 2021
Verified Purchase
Super interesting and informative, written in a non- judgmental way on what can be a touchy subject. I couldn’t put it down!
BB
5.0 out of 5 stars Awesome bookReviewed in Canada on October 15, 2021
Verified Purchase
So good I bought the physical book after getting the audiobook!
Funny, informative, and full of empathy!
Report abuse
See all reviews
