REVIEW OF THE NEW TOPPING BOOK BY DOSSIE EASTON AND JANET W. HARDY

Dossie Easton and Janet W. Hardy’s The New Topping Book serves as both a practical guide and a philosophical exploration of what it means to take on the role of a top. The authors begin with a strong foundation, examining the appeal of topping, the responsibilities of a top, and the variety of "top personas" one might embody. For those new to BDSM or exploring their dominance, this opening provides a clear and engaging entry point, setting the stage for thoughtful self-reflection and skill development.

The book excels in its commitment to demystifying topping and making it approachable for people of all experience levels. Easton and Hardy address crucial topics like finding a partner, preparing for a scene, negotiating boundaries, and closing a scene with care and consideration.

sections offer practical tools for building trust and safety in BDSM relationships while remaining deeply personal. The authors frequently use real-world examples and anecdotes, adding authenticity and relatability to the advice they provide. Scattered throughout the book are detailed erotic "interludes," which showcase the diversity of topping styles and demonstrate the creativity and passion that can go into scenes.

However, The New Topping Book is not without its flaws. While the authors’ conversational tone makes the book accessible, the chapters sometimes suffer from unnecessary elaboration and repetition. Topics like preparing for scenes or choosing implements are revisited multiple times, with later discussions offering little new insight. For some readers, this redundancy can make parts of the book feel tedious, detracting from the flow of the material.

One of the book’s more polarizing aspects is its exploration of BDSM spirituality and trauma healing. While these chapters may resonate with readers who are inclined toward New Age concepts, others may find the mystical language alienating. The authors discuss topics such as using BDSM to explore personal or cultural trauma and the interplay of energy and ritual in scenes. While some readers will appreciate these insights, others may feel that these sections deviate too far from the practical focus that defines the earlier chapters.

That said, The New Topping Book shines in its commitment to diversity and inclusivity. Easton and Hardy acknowledge the wide spectrum of gender identities, orientations, and kinks within the BDSM community, making an effort to validate different approaches to topping.

This inclusivity is a refreshing reminder that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to BDSM, and the book encourages readers to explore what feels authentic to them while remaining respectful of their partners.

For novice tops, the book provides enough foundational knowledge to get started and fosters an appreciation for the emotional and ethical responsibilities that come with the role. Its focus on empathy, consent, and mutual growth offers valuable lessons for any dynamic. However, its limitations—particularly the uneven pacing and New Age tone in later chapters—mean it is best read as a supplement rather than a standalone guide.

Ultimately, The New Topping Book succeeds in blending practical advice with philosophical musings, offering readers both tools and inspiration to develop their topping skills. While not without its shortcomings, it remains a worthy addition to any BDSM library, particularly for those willing to sift through its more esoteric sections for the gems of wisdom it offers. For those embarking on their topping journey, this book serves as an empowering and thoughtful resource to help navigate the complexities of dominance in BDSM.