I mainly read this book because, for some reason, I am drawn to stories about ballet dancers. There are lots of ballet details in the book to satisfy that curiosity of mine, and I really liked that it focused on a member of the "corps" rather than a star performer. Still, I wish the book would have ...
This is Shipstead's second novel, and to date it has not gotten quite the acclaim or recognition of her first. Astonish Me takes place largely in the 1970s–90s, with some bouncing back and forth. The main character, Joan, has spent her entire life working toward being a top ballerina. And she almo...
I really loved Maggie Shipstead's "Seating Arrangements"and thought that novel was a fresh and often crazy look into a family during the wedding weekend of the oldest daughter."Astonish Me" is about professional ballet which I have to say besides thinking it looks very pretty and often breathtaking ...
A little bit of The Turning Point mixed in with a delicious karmic ending ,this book somehow kept me engaged even though I knew nothing about ballet. The characters are all fascinating and the writing smooth. I am usually only into thrillers and science fiction, so kudos to the author. I really enj...
I got this through the goodreads giveaway program.In all honesty, this might be a 4-star read, but I personally appreciated it so deeply that it's a 5-star for me. A novel about ballet and dancing and dancers that's by someone who actually knows something about dancing. Not just throwing a few fre...
How strange it was that a dream, once realized, could quickly turn mundane. Not everyone can appreciate ballet, much less be a fan of it. I certainly am not. I find the discipline and the artistic egos of those who willingly subject themselves through physical and mental torture to achieve technical...
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