It's about what you like. Start slow... just the shaft and balls. Then if you like it, move up to the pubes for the complete shaved look.

Yes that's normal.
When you shave, it does come back darker, and sometimes thicker, but you won't really notice much difference from what it was like before you shaved it.

I would suggest waxing

As a woman I have to say I prefer hair on my men, I suggest you trim the hair very short rather than shave which will lead to ingrown hairs and nasty stubble/regrowth.
If you want to have smooth goods then bite the bullet and get a wax, its pretty common for men these days.
I have been waxing it all off for years and it doesn't really grow at all anymore - so good!

you should not shave your pubic hair.It is there for a reason,and the reason is to keep your pubic area clean.=)