Brian Alexander got so many uninhibited questions on his MSNBC.com column "Sexploration" that he decided to find out what made Americans so kinky, especially in an era marked by political conservatism. The result is America Unzipped, perhaps the best examination to date about the sexual state of the union. The book devotes a healthy portion of its 300-plus pages to novelty stores, home parties, bondage and other pleasures that should be of interest to not only those in this industry, but also to the sexually curious at large. Thoroughly immersing himself in his "assignments," Alexander paints engaging portraits of his subjects-including industry icons like Phil Harvey, Marty Tucker and Joani Blank-without passing judgment.

Though the press package touts his style as "gonzo," Alexander is to be credited for his entertaining balance of commentary and objectivity, and for creating a book that focuses less on what happens to him and more on what's happening behind closed doors in America-and how savvy entrepreneurs have cashed in on it. $