Reviews
Book Details
170 pages
ISBN-10: 1939686199
ISBN-13: 978-1939686190
Published: October 31, 2018
Reviews
Woven into Simpson’s compelling stories (ones that many single Christians will find familiar), he artfully integrates psychological research, pop psychology tips, spiritual wisdom, and a healthy dose of humor. Single Sex Storiesshines a light on an overlooked issue within the Christian community—the natural sexual desires of unmarried Christians. Through humor, biblical scholarship, psychological research, and his own personal experience, Simpson calls out the taboos and prejudices of singles sexuality while offering a revolutionary and refreshing solution. Simpson brings his considerable clinical experience, decades as an educator, and a personal story as a Christian trying to navigate his way through the labyrinth of sexual morality to bring us a compendium of sexual parables. If you’re seeking a list of do’s and don’t’s, this isn’t your book. If you’re comfortable with living in the tension, read on. Simpson bridges the considerable gap between conservative Christian teachings and progressive psychological thought with a touch that is both lighthearted and poignant. His use of stories helps us humanize a host of ethical dilemmas that are much easier resolved in theory than in real life. As each chapter revealed yet another piece of profound wisdom served in a hilarious and uplifting package, I was left wondering why we Christians insist on making this sex thing so damn difficult.
Ryan Howes, Ph.D., ABPP, is a board certified clinical psychologist who writes for Psychology Today
and the Psychotherapy Networker Magazine, is the founder of National Psychotherapy Day,
and has a private practice in Pasadena, California.
In this thoroughly engaging book, professor, clinical psychologist and humbly self-described “amateur theologian” Steve Simpson sets out to re-consider, re-work, and re-envision a Christian view of unmarried sexuality that transcends the shame-based, guilt-inducing approach so common in Evangelical Christian circles. He makes the case for passion, love of the body, self-respect, mutual concern, and care for the community as central to a healthy approach, while still offering plainly his belief that intercourse belongs in marriage. He shares what the Bible, research, and psychological theory have to say about this topic, but mostly he tells stories. Real stories. Sensitive stories. Emotionally rich and humanly complicated stories. And he does so with an enviable blend of humor, honesty, elegance, and a non-nonsense approach that will draw you in and get you thinking. A wonderful book for teens and young adults of faith as well as their parents.
Jennifer Kunst, PhD, clinical psychologist, psychoanalyst, and author of the book,
Wisdom from the Couch: Knowing and Growing Yourself from the Inside Out
Bombarded with mixed messages about our bodies, our behavior, and the Bible, it’s no wonder we struggle in developing healthy attitudes about sex when we’re single and on our own. Based on his experiences working as a skilled therapist with individuals and couples, Simpson offers valuable insights that expand beyond rigid thinking on sexual matters. As the reader ponders the perplexing situations of the characters in these personal stories, learning is happening as we let go of twisted thinking and let God lead in all areas of life including our sex life—all with a grateful heart.
Vivian Fransen, author of The Straight Spouse: A Memoir
Single Sex Stories is a labor of love to Christian singles. Deeply informed by theology and psychology it avoids legalism and easy answers. By telling stories (a la Irving Yalom) Simpson manages to reach the reader in emotionally and transformative ways. He reminds us that sex is not just about “me” but about “us,” the Body of Christ. I know of nothing like it in the Christian literature. I wish I had this book when I was single and I will make sure to get it in the hands of Christian singles everywhere.
Brad D. Strawn, PhD
Evelyn and Frank Freed Professor for the Integration of Psychology and Theology
Fuller Seminary, Graduate School of Psychology.
Author/Editor ofChristianity and Psychoanalysis: A New Conversationand The Physical Nature of Christian Life: Neuroscience, Psychology, and the Church
