Books: "Fifty Shades of Grey" Is For the Open Minded

Back in 2011, E.L James released her erotic romantic novel “Fifty Shades of Grey.”  James has sold 27 million copies in the UK and Commonwealth countries and over 45 million copies here in the U.S.

In the book, Ana (the protagonist) interviews 27-year-old Christian Grey, an incredibly successful and wealthy young entrepreneur. This is where the so-called relationship begins. 

As Ana stumbles through the interview, asking him questions about his personal life and relationships, she leaves Christian's office believing that it has gone badly. 

Ana tries to console herself by thinking the two of them will probably never meet again.  However, they do.  From there on they have a relationship like no other. 

After this book was published, there was much hype about whether “Fifty Shades” perpetuated violence against women.  There were also many comments that the book was "horribly written" in addition to being "disturbing."

One thing clear about “Fifty Shades of Grey” is that you either hate it or love it.  I tried to look beyond the BDSM and found myself getting more and more comfortable with Ana and Chris’s relationship. 

Do I recommend the book?  Yes, if you’re open minded about relationships and sex, and willing to read it as fan fiction, which is exactly what it was meant to be. 

The book has been out for years now, but if you’re interested in movies you’re in for a treat.  This movie was scheduled to premier in theaters on February 14.