"Attitude" is both a dance position and a state of mind. According to journalist Fishman (Behind the One-Way Mirror: Psychotherapy and Children
), dancers need both—technique and determination—to succeed as professionals. Fishman spent a year at one of the nation's top dance academies to observe eight gifted students and try to ascertain why some, and not others, go on to pursue dance careers. The students, both boys and girls, are from the East Coast and West, gay and straight, naturally talented and hard workers—all united by their love of movement. Fascinated by what exactly it takes to succeed professionally in the arts, Fishman writes about the dancers' families, the Ailey School faculty and the psychology of the dancers themselves—how do they handle victories, failures, weight issues and injuries? Fishman unknots the question: how much does success depend on talent and how much on motivation? While she cites research on the development of gifted teenagers from authorities such as Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi and Howard Gardner, Fishman doesn't offer definitive answers. But the questions are fascinating. And she portrays the students, whose lives she follows, with sensitivity and respect. B&w photos. Agent, Paul Cirone.
(Oct.)
Forecast:
This will appeal to educators, gifted students and their parents, and those looking for a peek behind the scenes at the training of young dancers.
