Book Club: ‘Sex in the Sea’ by Marah J. Hardt

‘Tales of marine love that are often as hilarious as they are disturbing’ – New York Post

The front cover of ‘Sex in the Sea’ by Marah J. Hardt

Combining a wealth of important information and intriguing innuendos, Dr Marah J. Hardt’s ‘Sex in the Sea’ provides a delightful insight into the reproductive behaviours of a range of marine creatures in our oceans. From gender-fluid fish and urinating lobsters to underwater orgies and removable penises, we are taken on a journey through all major marine environments to learn about the sex lives of our oceans kinkiest residents and why their survival is dependent on their ability to successfully get it on.

Sex-changing species like parrotfish are one of the many whacky reproducers in our oceans

The real strength of this fantastic book is the author’s ability to combine her comedic whit and descriptive powers with the complex science that lies behind millions of years of sexual evolution. The result is a delightful collection of underwater sex stories that will leave you equally amused and amazed. If you enjoy a good pun or innuendo then you will not be disappointed as the pages of this book are filled with a barrage of sexual superlatives, funny anecdotes, double entendre and comparisons to our own bedroom activities. The addition of suggestive illustrations, short stories, pornographic poems and even a ‘sex-sea soundtrack’ also add to the charm of this unique storytelling style.

One of the many fantastic illustrations that accompany the start of a new chapter

However as funny and entertaining as it is to read, it also doesn’t pull any punched when it comes to the serious stuff as well. In addition to introducing us to complex whale vaginas, fencing phalluses, mass spawning aggregations and other aspects of marine reproduction, Hardt also expertly explains why these things really matter and also how our aquatic activities are interfering with them. In fact a major part of this book is how these methods of reproduction are susceptible to human activities and pollutions, as well as how we can make changes to avoid causing reproductive breakdowns and population declines. As well as why marine reproduction still provides us with a lot to be optimistic about in our battle to save our oceans.

Despite the many threats they face, coral spawning is a sign that there is still hope for saving these endangered animals

Overall ‘Sex in the Sea’ provides ocean lovers with an intimate look at the salty seductions and kinky connections of the deep, whilst informing us of the big issues that are killing the mood. It is a truly fantastic read and I fully recommend it to anyone.

This review is the sixth in our new Marine Madness Book Club! At the beginning of every month we will be releasing a new review of an ocean inspired book and encouraging you to let us know what you think in the comments and via social media. To find out more visit the Book Club page here.