Kama Sutra (Illustrated by Malika Favre)

Little is known about Vatsyayana, who is reputed to have composed the Kama Sutra “while observing a celibate’s life in full meditation.” In Sanskrit the word “kama” means desire, especially for sensual pleasure, and its proper pursuit was considered an essential part of a young, urbane gentleman’s well-rounded education. Untold numbers of readers are curious about the Kama Sutra but put off by its clichéd image as an erotic Oriental curiosity. This elegant edition offers a compelling modern translation of a classic Indian masterpiece-and a wry and entertaining account of human desire and foibles.