The Cult of the Born-Again Virgin: How Single Women Can Reclaim Their Sexual Power

The concept is not a new one: Eve practiced celibacy until the snake tempted her into trading the Garden of Eden for sexual delights; Queen Elizabeth I held on to her virginity as if her kingdom depended on it. All well and good in more repressed times, but is celibacy a reasonable lifestyle choice for women of the sexually liberated 21st century? It may seem like a hard sell, but Keller, a former newspaper and magazine journalist, offers compelling reasons for women to take a break from sexual relations. Calling upon her own experiences and those of women across the country who have not found contentment or joy in their relationships, she details how both short-term and permanent abstinence commonly lead to new confidence and self-esteem. Contending that ""tak[ing] sex off one's activity list and put[ting] it on the list of what is revered"" enhances one's sense of personal power, control over one's sexuality and the ability to focus on goals (including attracting a better mate)--and also allows more time for nurturing oneself, developing one's spirituality and improving one's health and finances--Keller may overstate the potential benefits. Still, most people experience times when concentrating on these areas while putting sex aside would be a smart move. Although becoming a BAV may not appeal to most women at first, reading this apparently radical but well-argued book may spur many to rethink their initial response. (Feb.)