The Ick Files An A–Z of Your Biggest Turnoffs

The ultimate compendium of cringe-worthy libido-killing dating behavior.

You know the feeling: someone says or does one tiny thing so profoundly unsexy that your attraction vanishes instantly. Chemistry: dead. Romance: canceled. Nervous system: offline.

Congratulations. You’ve got the ick.

The Ick Files is an A-to-Z catalog of the bizarre, irrational, painfully specific behaviors that instantly kill attraction—and unite daters everywhere in horrified solidarity. Featuring more than 175 real-life submissions, this collection celebrates modern romance at its absolute worst.

Some icks are petty. Some are justified. Some are so deeply upsetting they deserve academic study.

Whether it’s a guy chasing a ping-pong ball, clapping when the plane lands, or a girl who owns thirty stuffed animals and kisses every single one of them goodnight before she goes to sleep, The Ick Files proves that dating today isn’t about finding “the one”—it’s about discovering increasingly creative reasons to never text someone back.

Perfect for birthdays, breakups, bachelor and bachelorette parties, and passing around at dinner while everyone screams, “WAIT—I HAVE ONE.”

Ari Cagan and John Hammond are cofounders of American Picture Company, a studio focused on interactive storytelling and community building. They are the creators of awarding-winning films and viral series, including Keep the Meter Running and Boy Room. They are based in New York City.

John Hammond and Ari Cagan are cofounders of American Picture Company, a studio focused on interactive storytelling and community building. They are the creators of awarding-winning films and viral series, including Keep the Meter Running and Boy Room. They are based in New York City.