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In this unique text, Markula (Univ. of Alberta) and Clark (Univ. of Waikato, New Zealand) have edited a collection of essays that explore the transformation of the ballet body alongside an inquiry into the history and meaning of ballet. In addition to being dancers themselves, the contributors are scholars from a range of backgrounds, including gender studies, occupational therapy, and kinesiology. The text considers the historical foundations of ballet, discussing its initiation as an art form, how ballet came to be associated with little girls in tutus, its expansion into popular reality television shows, and, most recently, its promotion in the exercise world as a new style of workout. The essays delve into the different types of ballet bodies that exist and how they too have transformed over the years. Of particular interest is the book's emphasis on the different ways ballet dancers experience their bodies. The authors recognize that there exists a societal ideal for a ballet dancer's physique; many dancers find that their ballet bodies are much more than that. A fascinating work.Summing Up: Highly recommended. All readers.