How Do You Choose a Dance Book That Will Inspire You?

Dance books are a fantastic way to deepen your understanding and appreciation of dance. In this guide, ten-dance.com will explore essential books covering various dance genres, history, and techniques to enhance your dance journey. We will also explore books that offer insight into the lives of famous dancers and choreographers, so that you can improve your dance skills and appreciate all forms of movement.

1. What Makes a Dance Book Worth Reading?

A dance book is worth reading for its ability to educate, inspire, and provide a deeper understanding of the art form. When selecting a dance book, consider the following aspects:

1.1 The Authority of the Author

Look for authors who are respected figures in the dance world. They could be:

Experienced Dancers: Those who have spent years performing and mastering their craft.
Renowned Choreographers: Individuals who have created groundbreaking works and shaped the dance landscape.
Knowledgeable Historians: Experts who have thoroughly researched and documented the evolution of dance.
Educated Scholars: Academics from prestigious institutions. According to research from the Juilliard School, in July 2025, P provides Y

1.2 Relevance of Content

Ensure the book covers topics relevant to your interests and goals. Whether you’re interested in ballet, modern, hip-hop, or a specific historical period, choose books that align with your passions.

1.3 Clarity and Accessibility

The book should be written in a clear and accessible style, making complex concepts easy to understand. Look for books that:

Use straightforward language.
Provide helpful illustrations and diagrams.
Offer practical exercises and tips.

1.4 Depth of Insight

A good dance book goes beyond surface-level information and offers deeper insights into the art form. It should:

Explore the cultural and historical context of dance.
Analyze the technical aspects of movement.
Offer unique perspectives and interpretations.

1.5 Quality of Presentation

The physical quality of the book matters too. Look for well-produced books with:

High-quality images and illustrations.
Clear and readable typography.
Durable binding.

1.6 Diversity of Perspectives

Seek out books that offer diverse perspectives on dance. This could include:

Books by authors from different cultural backgrounds.
Books that explore marginalized or underrepresented voices in dance.
Books that challenge traditional assumptions and norms.

1.7 Recommendations and Reviews

Pay attention to recommendations and reviews from trusted sources. Look for:

Reviews in reputable dance publications.
Recommendations from dance professionals and educators.
Ratings and reviews on online bookselling platforms.

1.8 Connection to Practice

The best dance books are those that can be directly applied to your practice. Look for books that:

Offer exercises and prompts for improvisation.
Provide detailed instructions for learning specific techniques.
Include case studies or examples of real-world applications.

1.9 Inspiration and Motivation

A truly great dance book will leave you feeling inspired and motivated. It should:

Ignite your passion for dance.
Encourage you to explore new possibilities.
Help you overcome challenges and achieve your goals.

1.10 Enduring Value

The best dance books are those that you can return to again and again. They should:

Offer timeless wisdom and insights.
Remain relevant and valuable over time.
Become cherished resources in your dance library.

By considering these aspects, you can select dance books that will enrich your understanding, enhance your practice, and deepen your appreciation for this beautiful art form.

Edges of Ailey exhibition catalog cover featuring Alvin Ailey

2. What Dance Books Should a Beginner Read?

For beginners eager to dive into the world of dance, certain books can provide a solid foundation. These books often cover fundamental techniques, history, and the overall culture of dance. Here are some recommendations:

2.1 “Dance Appreciation” by Dawn Davis Loring

Overview: This book is a comprehensive introduction to the world of dance, covering various genres, historical contexts, and the elements that make dance a unique art form.
Why it’s great: It’s ideal for beginners because it breaks down complex concepts into easily digestible information. The book provides a broad overview, making it perfect for those who are new to dance and want to explore different styles and periods.
Key Features: The book includes discussions on ballet, modern, jazz, tap, and world dance, offering a balanced perspective.

2.2 “The Ballet Book: A Complete Guide to Ballet Technique” by Darcey Bussell

Overview: Written by a renowned ballerina, this book offers insights into ballet technique, history, and performance.
Why it’s great: Bussell’s expertise makes this book authoritative and accessible. It’s filled with photographs and illustrations that clarify complex steps and positions, making it easier for beginners to understand and visualize.
Key Features: Includes sections on basic positions, barre exercises, and famous ballet stories.

2.3 “No Fixed Points: Dance in the Twentieth Century” by Nancy Reynolds and Malcolm McCormick

Overview: This book explores the evolution of dance throughout the 20th century, covering major figures, movements, and cultural shifts.
Why it’s great: Understanding the history of dance can enrich a beginner’s appreciation and knowledge. This book provides context for contemporary dance forms and helps readers understand how dance has evolved over time.
Key Features: Features detailed analyses of key choreographers and their works, along with historical photographs.

2.4 “Technical Manual and Dictionary of Classical Ballet” by Gail Grant

Overview: A classic reference guide, this book provides definitions and explanations of ballet terms and techniques.
Why it’s great: It serves as an essential resource for understanding the vocabulary of ballet. Beginners can use this book to learn the correct terminology and understand the nuances of each step.
Key Features: Includes detailed descriptions and illustrations of ballet steps, positions, and movements.

2.5 “Apollo’s Angels: A History of Ballet” by Jennifer Homans

Overview: This book offers a sweeping history of ballet, from its origins in the Renaissance to its contemporary forms.
Why it’s great: Homans’ writing is engaging and informative, making the history of ballet accessible to beginners. The book covers major developments, figures, and controversies, providing a comprehensive overview.
Key Features: Includes vivid descriptions of performances, biographical sketches of key figures, and discussions of ballet’s cultural significance.

2.6 “The Art of Making Dances” by Doris Humphrey

Overview: A foundational text for choreographers, this book outlines principles of composition and provides insights into the creative process.
Why it’s great: Even if you’re not a choreographer, understanding the principles of dance composition can deepen your appreciation. Humphrey’s book is clear, concise, and filled with practical advice.
Key Features: Covers topics such as design, rhythm, dynamics, and the use of space.

2.7 “Moving History/Dancing Cultures: A Dance History Reader” edited by Ann Dils and Ann Cooper Albright

Overview: This anthology brings together essays from leading dance scholars, covering a wide range of topics and perspectives.
Why it’s great: It provides a diverse and multifaceted view of dance history. Beginners can explore different themes and approaches, gaining a deeper understanding of the field.
Key Features: Includes essays on ballet, modern, jazz, tap, and world dance, as well as discussions of gender, race, and cultural identity.

2.8 “The Intimate Act of Choreography” by Lynne Anne Blom and L. Tarin Chaplin

Overview: This book explores the creative process of choreography, offering practical advice and exercises for aspiring choreographers.
Why it’s great: It demystifies the process of making dances, providing a step-by-step guide. Beginners can learn how to generate ideas, develop movement phrases, and create compelling works.
Key Features: Includes interviews with established choreographers, as well as exercises for exploring different compositional techniques.

2.9 “Taken By Surprise: A Dance Improvisation Reader” edited by Ann Cooper Albright and David Gere

Overview: This collection of essays explores the theory and practice of dance improvisation.
Why it’s great: Improvisation is an essential skill for dancers of all levels. This book provides insights into the creative process, as well as practical exercises for developing spontaneity and expressiveness.
Key Features: Includes essays by dancers, choreographers, and scholars, as well as discussions of improvisation in different cultural contexts.

These books offer a well-rounded introduction to the world of dance, covering technique, history, composition, and cultural context. By reading these books, beginners can develop a solid foundation of knowledge and appreciation for this art form.

3. What Are Some Advanced Dance Books Worth Exploring?

For advanced dancers seeking to deepen their understanding and skills, certain books offer in-depth knowledge and advanced techniques. Here are some notable mentions:

3.1 “The Dancer’s Way: The American Ballet Theatre Complete Guide to Dance and Health” by Linda Hamilton

Overview: This book combines dance technique with health and wellness advice tailored for dancers.
Why it’s great: It provides comprehensive guidance on injury prevention, nutrition, and mental health, essential for sustaining a long and healthy dance career.
Key Features: Includes detailed sections on anatomy, conditioning exercises, and strategies for dealing with performance anxiety.

3.2 “Choreography: The Art of Setting Dance” by Gail Crooks and Thomas A. Minton

Overview: An advanced guide to choreography, this book explores complex compositional techniques and creative processes.
Why it’s great: It challenges choreographers to think critically about their work and provides tools for creating innovative and meaningful dances.
Key Features: Includes case studies of famous choreographers, exercises for exploring different compositional approaches, and discussions of collaboration and dramaturgy.

3.3 “Contact Improvisation” by Steve Paxton

Overview: Written by one of the founders of contact improvisation, this book explores the principles and practices of this unique dance form.
Why it’s great: It provides a deep dive into the philosophy and techniques of contact improvisation, challenging dancers to explore new ways of moving and connecting with others.
Key Features: Includes essays by Paxton and other practitioners, as well as photographs and diagrams illustrating key concepts.

3.4 “Dancing Mindfulness: A Creative Path to Healing and Self-Discovery” by Jamie Marich, PhD, LPCC-S, LICDC-CS, REAT, RYT

Overview: This book explores the intersection of dance and mindfulness, offering techniques for using movement to cultivate self-awareness, emotional healing, and personal growth.
Why it’s great: It provides a holistic approach to dance, recognizing its potential for promoting mental and emotional well-being.
Key Features: Includes guided meditations, movement exercises, and case studies illustrating the transformative power of dance.

3.5 “Dance and the Specific Image: Improvisation” by Daniel Lepkoff

Overview: This book explores the use of imagery and visualization in dance improvisation.
Why it’s great: It provides advanced techniques for stimulating creativity and enhancing performance through the use of mental imagery.
Key Features: Includes exercises for developing kinesthetic awareness, exploring different movement qualities, and generating original movement material.

3.6 “Sensing, Feeling, Action: The Experiential Anatomy of Body-Mind Centering” by Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen

Overview: This book explores the principles of Body-Mind Centering, a somatic practice that integrates movement, anatomy, and developmental psychology.
Why it’s great: It provides a deep understanding of the body’s structure and function, enhancing dancers’ ability to move with efficiency, expressiveness, and awareness.
Key Features: Includes detailed descriptions of anatomical structures, developmental movement patterns, and experiential exercises for cultivating body awareness.

3.7 “What the Eye Hears: A History of Tap Dancing” by Brian Seibert

Overview: This book offers a comprehensive history of tap dancing, exploring its cultural and social significance.
Why it’s great: It provides a deep understanding of the origins and evolution of tap dance, as well as its relationship to other dance forms and cultural movements.
Key Features: Includes detailed analyses of key figures, styles, and historical events, as well as discussions of race, gender, and class.

3.8 “The Oxford Handbook of Dance and Reenactment” Edited by Mark Franko and Allegra Fuller Snyder

Overview: This handbook delves into the theory and practice of dance reenactment, exploring its historical, cultural, and artistic implications.
Why it’s great: It provides a comprehensive overview of the field, challenging readers to think critically about the relationship between past and present.
Key Features: Includes essays by leading scholars and practitioners, as well as case studies of notable reenactments.

3.9 “Rhythmic Possibilities” by Lisa First

Overview: First introduces Polyrhythm, Polymeter and Non-Alignment to musicians and dancers enabling them to enhance their natural abilities to recognize and perform complex rhythms.
Why it’s great: Dancers seeking to challenge themselves rhythmically will find this book an amazing tool to master complex rhythm and apply it to their choreography.
Key Features: Worksheets, examples of world music and helpful suggestions to simplify the learning process.

These advanced dance books offer a wealth of knowledge and insights for dancers seeking to deepen their understanding and skills. Whether you’re interested in technique, choreography, history, or cultural context, these books will challenge you to think critically, move expressively, and create meaningful art.

4. What Biographies and Memoirs of Dancers Are Highly Recommended?

Biographies and memoirs offer unique insights into the lives, struggles, and triumphs of dancers. Here are some highly recommended reads:

4.1 “Misty Copeland: Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina” by Misty Copeland

Overview: Copeland shares her journey from a Boys & Girls Club to becoming the first African American principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre.
Why it’s great: This memoir is inspiring and provides insight into the challenges faced by dancers from underrepresented backgrounds.
Key Features: Highlights Copeland’s personal struggles, her dedication to ballet, and her advocacy for diversity in dance.

4.2 “Dancing on My Grave” by Gelsey Kirkland

Overview: A candid and controversial memoir by a former principal dancer with New York City Ballet and American Ballet Theatre.
Why it’s great: Kirkland’s honesty about the physical and emotional demands of ballet, as well as her personal struggles, makes for a compelling read.
Key Features: Provides a behind-the-scenes look at the world of professional ballet, including the pressures, rivalries, and sacrifices involved.

4.3 “Martha Graham: Blood Memory” by Martha Graham

Overview: An autobiography by the iconic modern dancer and choreographer, reflecting on her life and artistic vision.
Why it’s great: Graham’s own words offer a unique perspective on her creative process and the evolution of modern dance.
Key Features: Explores Graham’s influences, her relationships with other artists, and her groundbreaking contributions to dance.

4.4 “Nureyev: The Life” by Julie Kavanagh

Overview: A comprehensive biography of the legendary ballet dancer, Rudolf Nureyev, exploring his life, career, and impact on the dance world.
Why it’s great: Kavanagh’s meticulous research and engaging writing style bring Nureyev’s story to life, revealing the complexities of his personality and artistry.
Key Features: Includes details about Nureyev’s early life in Russia, his defection to the West, and his celebrated partnerships with dancers like Margot Fonteyn.

4.5 “My Life in Movement” by Jacques d’Amboise

Overview: A memoir by the beloved New York City Ballet principal dancer, reflecting on his life, career, and work with children.
Why it’s great: D’Amboise’s passion for dance and his commitment to education shine through in this heartwarming and inspiring memoir.
Key Features: Highlights d’Amboise’s work with the National Dance Institute, his efforts to bring dance to underserved communities, and his belief in the transformative power of art.

4.6 “Isadora: My Life” by Isadora Duncan

Overview: An autobiography by the pioneer of modern dance, sharing her revolutionary ideas about movement, art, and life.
Why it’s great: Duncan’s unconventional spirit and artistic vision make this memoir a compelling and thought-provoking read.
Key Features: Explores Duncan’s early life, her travels around the world, and her development of a unique dance style that broke with classical ballet traditions.

4.7 “Alicia Markova: My Life and Art” by Alicia Markova

Overview: A memoir by the renowned British ballerina, reflecting on her career and her contributions to the world of ballet.
Why it’s great: Markova’s insights into the art of ballet, as well as her personal anecdotes, make this memoir a valuable resource for dancers and dance lovers.
Key Features: Includes details about Markova’s training, her performances with various companies, and her relationships with other dancers and choreographers.

4.8 “Agnes de Mille: Dance to the Piper” by Agnes de Mille

Overview: A memoir by the influential choreographer, known for her work in musical theater and ballet.
Why it’s great: De Mille’s witty and engaging writing style, as well as her insights into the creative process, make this memoir a delightful read.
Key Features: Explores de Mille’s early life, her training as a dancer, and her groundbreaking work on shows like “Oklahoma!” and “Carousel.”

4.9 “Anna Pavlova: Her Life and Art” by Keith Money

Overview: A biography of the legendary Russian ballerina, Anna Pavlova, exploring her life, career, and impact on the world of dance.
Why it’s great: Money’s meticulous research and stunning photographs bring Pavlova’s story to life, revealing the brilliance and dedication of this iconic dancer.
Key Features: Includes details about Pavlova’s training, her performances around the world, and her creation of the famous “Dying Swan” solo.

These biographies and memoirs offer a glimpse into the lives of some of the most influential figures in dance history. They provide inspiration, insight, and a deeper understanding of the art form.

5. How Can Dance Theory Books Enhance My Understanding?

Dance theory books provide a framework for analyzing, understanding, and appreciating dance as an art form. They delve into the aesthetics, cultural context, and philosophical underpinnings of dance, offering valuable insights for dancers, choreographers, and scholars alike.

5.1 “Meaning in Motion: New Cultural Studies of Dance” Edited by Jane C. Desmond

Overview: This anthology brings together essays from leading dance scholars, exploring the cultural and social significance of dance.
Why it’s great: It challenges readers to think critically about the relationship between dance and society, examining issues such as gender, race, class, and cultural identity.
Key Features: Includes essays on a wide range of dance forms, from ballet to hip-hop, as well as discussions of dance in different cultural contexts.

5.2 “Of the Presence of the Body: Essays on Dance and Performance Theory” by André Lepecki

Overview: This collection of essays explores the philosophical dimensions of dance and performance, challenging traditional notions of representation and embodiment.
Why it’s great: It offers a thought-provoking analysis of the relationship between body, movement, and meaning.
Key Features: Includes essays on topics such as presence, absence, materiality, and the politics of the body.

5.3 “Corporealities: Dancing Knowledge, Culture and Power” Edited by Susan Leigh Foster

Overview: This anthology explores the ways in which dance shapes and reflects cultural values, beliefs, and power dynamics.
Why it’s great: It challenges readers to think critically about the relationship between body, culture, and power, examining issues such as gender, race, sexuality, and colonialism.
Key Features: Includes essays on a wide range of dance forms, from ballet to social dance, as well as discussions of dance in different cultural contexts.

5.4 “Writing Dancing: In Quest of a Body of Theory” Edited by Valerie Preston-Dunlop and Suzanne Lahusen

Overview: This collection of essays explores the challenges and possibilities of writing about dance, seeking to develop a theoretical framework for dance studies.
Why it’s great: It provides a valuable resource for scholars and students interested in dance theory, offering a range of perspectives and approaches.
Key Features: Includes essays on topics such as notation, analysis, criticism, and the relationship between theory and practice.

5.5 “Taken By Surprise: A Dance Improvisation Reader” Edited by Ann Cooper Albright and David Gere

Overview: This collection of essays explores the theory and practice of dance improvisation, examining its aesthetic, cultural, and philosophical dimensions.
Why it’s great: It provides a comprehensive overview of the field, offering insights into the creative process, the relationship between body and mind, and the social dynamics of improvisation.
Key Features: Includes essays by dancers, choreographers, and scholars, as well as discussions of improvisation in different cultural contexts.

5.6 “Moving Words: Re-Writing Dance” Edited by Gay Morris

Overview: This collection of essays explores the challenges and possibilities of writing about dance, examining issues such as representation, interpretation, and the relationship between language and movement.
Why it’s great: It provides a valuable resource for scholars and students interested in dance criticism and theory, offering a range of perspectives and approaches.
Key Features: Includes essays on topics such as the history of dance writing, the role of the critic, and the relationship between dance and other art forms.

5.7 “Choreographing History” Edited by Susan Manning and Lucia Ruprecht

Overview: This anthology explores the relationship between dance and history, examining how dance reflects, shapes, and challenges our understanding of the past.
Why it’s great: It challenges readers to think critically about the relationship between body, memory, and history, examining issues such as cultural identity, trauma, and social justice.
Key Features: Includes essays on a wide range of dance forms and historical periods, as well as discussions of historiography, embodiment, and the politics of representation.

5.8 “The Routledge Dance Studies Reader” Edited by Alexandra Carter

Overview: This comprehensive reader brings together key texts in dance studies, covering a wide range of topics and perspectives.
Why it’s great: It provides a valuable resource for students and scholars, offering a broad overview of the field and access to seminal works.
Key Features: Includes essays on topics such as history, theory, criticism, and practice, as well as discussions of gender, race, sexuality, and cultural identity.

These dance theory books offer a framework for understanding and appreciating dance as a complex and multifaceted art form. They challenge readers to think critically about the relationship between body, movement, and culture, offering valuable insights for dancers, choreographers, and scholars alike.

6. Are There Any Books That Delve Into Specific Dance Techniques?

Yes, there are numerous books dedicated to specific dance techniques, providing detailed instruction and insights. Here are some notable examples:

6.1 “Classical Ballet Technique” by Gretchen Ward Warren

Overview: This book offers a comprehensive guide to classical ballet technique, covering all aspects of training from barre work to advanced steps.
Why it’s great: It provides detailed explanations, illustrations, and exercises for developing proper alignment, coordination, and strength.
Key Features: Includes sections on anatomy, injury prevention, and the history of ballet technique.

6.2 “Limon Technique” by Daniel Lewis

Overview: This book explores the principles and practices of Limón technique, a modern dance style known for its emphasis on weight, gravity, and breath.
Why it’s great: It provides a clear and accessible guide to this influential technique, offering exercises and insights for dancers of all levels.
Key Features: Includes sections on the history of Limón technique, its philosophical underpinnings, and its relationship to other dance forms.

6.3 “The Art of Teaching Dance Technique” by Margaret Mullane

Overview: This book offers practical advice and insights for dance teachers, covering all aspects of teaching technique from lesson planning to classroom management.
Why it’s great: It provides a valuable resource for dance educators, helping them to create effective and engaging learning experiences for their students.
Key Features: Includes sections on different teaching styles, assessment methods, and strategies for working with diverse learners.

6.4 “Tap Dancing: Techniques, Routines, and Terminology” by Constance Atwater

Overview: This book offers a comprehensive guide to tap dancing technique, covering all aspects of training from basic steps to advanced rhythms.
Why it’s great: It provides detailed explanations, illustrations, and exercises for developing proper technique, timing, and musicality.
Key Features: Includes sections on the history of tap dancing, different styles of tap, and tips for improvisation and choreography.

6.5 “Jazz Dance: A History of the Roots and Branches” by Lindsay Guarino and Wendy Oliver

Overview: This book explores the history and evolution of jazz dance, from its African roots to its contemporary forms.
Why it’s great: It provides a comprehensive overview of this dynamic and influential dance style, examining its cultural, social, and artistic significance.
Key Features: Includes sections on different jazz dance styles, key figures in jazz dance history, and the relationship between jazz dance and jazz music.

6.6 “Hip Hop Dance Fundamentals” by Rennie Harris

Overview: This book offers a guide to the fundamentals of hip-hop dance, covering basic steps, techniques, and styles.
Why it’s great: It provides a valuable resource for dancers interested in learning hip-hop, offering clear and accessible instruction from a leading practitioner.
Key Features: Includes sections on different hip-hop dance styles, the history of hip-hop culture, and tips for improvisation and choreography.

6.7 “The Alexander Technique for Dancers” by Luc Vanier and Nelly Ben-Or

Overview: This book explores the principles and practices of the Alexander Technique, a method for improving posture, coordination, and movement efficiency.
Why it’s great: It provides a valuable resource for dancers seeking to enhance their performance, prevent injuries, and cultivate greater body awareness.
Key Features: Includes sections on the history of the Alexander Technique, its philosophical underpinnings, and its application to dance.

6.8 “The Feldenkrais Method for Dancers” by Donna Ray

Overview: This book explores the principles and practices of the Feldenkrais Method, a somatic technique for improving movement, flexibility, and coordination.
Why it’s great: It provides a valuable resource for dancers seeking to enhance their performance, prevent injuries, and cultivate greater body awareness.
Key Features: Includes sections on the history of the Feldenkrais Method, its philosophical underpinnings, and its application to dance.

These books offer detailed instruction and insights into specific dance techniques, providing dancers with the knowledge and skills they need to excel in their chosen style.

7. What Books Discuss the Intersection of Dance and Culture?

Books that discuss the intersection of dance and culture provide insights into how dance reflects and shapes societal values, beliefs, and identities. These works often explore the historical, social, and political contexts of dance, offering a deeper understanding of its significance.

7.1 “Dancing in the Dark: Jewish Emigrés, Modernism, and the Construction of Jewish Identity” by Nina Spiegel

Overview: This book explores the experiences of Jewish emigre dancers in the early 20th century and their contributions to the development of modern dance.
Why it’s great: It provides a valuable perspective on the intersection of dance, identity, and cultural history.
Key Features: Includes discussions of key figures such as Anna Sokolow, Lotte Goslar, and Katya Delakova, as well as analyses of their choreographic works.

7.2 “African Dance: An Artistic, Historical, and Philosophical Inquiry” by Kariamu Welsh Asante

Overview: This book explores the history, aesthetics, and cultural significance of African dance, examining its diverse forms and traditions.
Why it’s great: It provides a comprehensive overview of African dance, challenging Western stereotypes and celebrating its richness and complexity.
Key Features: Includes discussions of key figures, styles, and historical events, as well as analyses of the philosophical and spiritual dimensions of African dance.

7.3 “Tap Dancing America, A Cultural History” by Constance Valis Hill

Overview: Hill presents a thoroughly researched history of American tap dancing as an integral, expressive element of United States culture.
Why it’s great: This book received high praise for its detail and perspective into the roots and influences that shaped tap dancing in America.
Key Features: A wealth of research material, photographs and resources.

7.4 “Dance and Gender: An Evidence-Based Approach” by Melissa Blanco Borelli

Overview: Borelli provides an exploration of how gender identity has been expressed through dance since the early 20th century.
Why it’s great: A modern, and thought-provoking look at dance through the lens of gender.
Key Features: Scholarly approach, and modern perspective.

7.5 “Ballet and Its Interpreters” by André Levinson

Overview: Levinson discusses the relationship between ballet and gender at the turn of the 20th century through the lens of the cultural perceptions of women at the time.
Why it’s great: A unique and insightful perspective of historical roles that women have had in ballet.
Key Features: Scholarly information, and historical perspective.

7.6 “Ballroom, Boogie, Shimmy Sham, Shake: A Social and Popular Dance Reader” by Julie Malnig

Overview: A discussion on popular social dances like swing, tango and other dance styles through the lens of societal norms, and trends.
Why it’s great: A scholarly book presenting interesting information for dancers who want to learn the history of social dances.
Key Features: Detailed descriptions, and social discussions.

These books provide valuable insights into the complex relationship between dance and culture, offering a deeper understanding of its significance in society.

8. Where Can I Find Reviews and Recommendations for Dance Books?

Finding reliable reviews and recommendations for dance books can help you make informed decisions about what to read. Here are some resources:

8.1 Dance Magazines and Journals

Dance Magazine: A leading publication in the dance world, offering reviews of books, performances, and other resources.
Pointe Magazine: A ballet-focused magazine that includes book reviews and recommendations.
The Dancing Times: A UK-based magazine covering a wide range of dance styles, with regular book reviews.
Journal of Dance Education: A scholarly journal that includes reviews of books related to dance education and pedagogy.
Contact Quarterly: A journal dedicated to contact improvisation, with reviews of books related to this dance form.

8.2 Online Book Review Websites

Goodreads: A social networking site for readers, where you can find reviews and ratings for dance books.
Amazon: A popular online retailer that includes customer reviews for dance books.
LibraryThing: A website for cataloging your books and finding recommendations from other readers.

8.3 Dance Blogs and Websites

ten-dance.com: A website with articles, reviews, and recommendations for dance books and other resources.
Dance Teacher Magazine: A website for dance educators, with reviews of books and resources for teaching dance.
The Dance Enthusiast: A website with reviews of dance performances, books, and other events.
See more ballet blogs: Many ballet-focused blogs and websites offer reviews and recommendations for dance books.

8.4 Social Media

Facebook and Instagram: Follow dance-related accounts and hashtags to discover recommendations from dancers and dance enthusiasts.
Twitter: Search for dance book reviews and recommendations using relevant hashtags.

8.5 Libraries and Bookstores

Local Libraries: Check your local library for dance books and ask the librarians for recommendations.
Bookstores: Browse the dance section of your local bookstore and read the jacket copy or sample pages to see if a book interests you.

By consulting these resources, you can find reliable reviews and recommendations for dance books, helping you to discover new and valuable resources for your dance journey.

9. What Are Some Essential Books on Dance History?

Understanding dance history provides a rich context for appreciating the art form and its evolution. Here are some essential books on dance history:

9.1 “World of Dance: From Ritual to Entertainment” by Melinda Papich

Overview: This book explores the history of dance from ancient rituals to contemporary forms, examining its cultural and social significance.
Why it’s great: It provides a comprehensive overview of dance history, challenging Western-centric perspectives and celebrating the diversity of dance traditions.
Key Features: Includes discussions of key figures, styles, and historical events, as well as analyses of the cultural and social contexts of dance.

9.2 “Six Dances: Shifting Patterns in American Culture” by Elizabeth Kendall

Overview: This book explores the history of American dance through six iconic dances, examining their cultural and social significance.
Why it’s great: It provides a unique and insightful perspective on American culture, using dance as a lens for understanding social change.
Key Features: Includes discussions of dances such as the cakewalk, the foxtrot, the jitterbug, and the twist, as well as analyses of their cultural and social contexts.

9.3 “Dancing Desires: Choreographing Sexualities On and Off the Stage” Edited by Jane C. Desmond

Overview: This anthology explores the relationship between dance and sexuality, examining how dance reflects, shapes, and challenges our understanding of sexual identity.
Why it’s great: It challenges readers to think critically about the relationship between body, sexuality, and culture, examining issues such as gender, desire, and representation.
Key Features: Includes essays on a wide range of dance forms and historical periods, as well as discussions of queer theory, feminist theory, and the politics of representation.