Anthony D. Ravenscroft

This book sets out to cover a very difficult & complex subject, per the subtitle. In order to do that properly, it introduces the reader to complex topics starting with interpersonal dynamics & moving up into interactionism, relationship therapy, & social design considerations. In short, it gets more & more complex through most of its length.

By all rights, it therefore ought to be about as interesting as the White Pages. (Or maybe even a 300-page dictionary.) As a result, it rambles terribly in more than one place -- but very entertainingly. It's packed with stories as illustration. You can't read through it without picking up some important tips & cautions; even the monogamous will learn useful skills.

The "rambling" itself is interesting. The Introduction briefly starts you on scientific method. Chapter 1 defines the most common terms used by polyamorous people; chapter 2 has the world's briefest thorough history of monogamy -- yes, really. The third chapter tries to talk you out of "becoming poly" & goes into detail as to how difficult it is. Then the book goes on to break down the skills you need & walk you through the high points as individual topics.

And by the time you get through all that, you've barely gone 100 pages.

The rest of the book is based on the assumption that you have obtained a better idea where you want to go with your life & are actively taking steps in that direction. But the lessons don't stop, even if you're not interested in "being poly." By the end, you can't help but be better at solving problems that occur with your spouse, kids, friends, & co-workers.… (meer)