“Taub adopts a tone that marries scholarly research and lively inspection to a topic that is rarely examined and poorly understood. This allows for a dual satisfaction by researchers and general-interest readers alike, who will find the story of tickling both interesting and insightful. The book based on his research is filled with careful science and fascinating commentary. It will hold up in research-based collections but, more importantly to the general reader, it is a fun read and would be a great topic for a book discussion.”

“This work features a unique collection of data concerning many aspects of ticklishness in humans, with an emphasis on women. Among the multiple topics addressed are a variety of physiological and social situations, referencing ages, ethnicities, nationalities, moods, whether or not the subjects are sexually active, and the role that tickling plays in society. . . . Overall, this study of an apparently universal human condition is fun to read. One interesting conclusion the book makes is that tickling is usually an act of caring, friendship, part of a close relationship, and/or an act of love that is intended to relax people, reassure them, and make them happy. The author focuses on the positive aspects of tickling, and the reader will likely smile and perhaps feel vicarious tickling sensations, as well.”