Venus Years: Navigating the Coming of Age Journey with the 7 Forms of Love

About This Book

What does it mean to love—and to be loved—during the most transformative years of your life?

Venus Years is a groundbreaking workbook that guides readers through the seven ancient Greek forms of love: Eros (passion), Philia (friendship), Ludus (playfulness), Agape (unconditional love), Pragma (enduring commitment), Philautia (self-love), and Storge (family bonds).

Rooted in the profound wisdom of Black women's literature—from bell hooks to Toni Morrison, from Octavia Butler to Maya Angelou—this guide offers a counter-narrative to mainstream depictions of love. Here, love is not obsession or performance, but liberation, community, and fierce commitment to mutual flourishing.

Whether you are a teenager navigating first loves, a young adult building lasting relationships, a parent seeking conversation starters, or an educator looking for transformative curriculum, Venus Years meets you where you are with thought-provoking reflection questions, literary analysis, and practical wisdom for the journey ahead.

Because love is not something you have or lack—it is something you practice, daily, with intention and courage.

"Love is an action, never simply a feeling."

— bell hooks