The Shape of Love

"Dancing on My Grave" was riveting, taking you down the spiral into addiction and then back up again--barely. This sequel autobiography fulfills all your hopes for Ms. Kirkland and much, much more! The world is fortunate that she met her co-author and life partner, Greg Lawrence, who has so skillfully guided them both through these books that immortalize the special passion and intensity she brought into her work as a dancer! I'm not a ballerina (although I dance whenever I can and always dreamed of being one) but her presentation of her working methods crosses over and can be applied to just about any life or form of creative expression! I could not put this book down, the story is so well-told, with one event after another drawing you on. Who needs gossip and scandal? This is MUCH, much more enriching and fulfilling, healing and inspiring! Don't miss it! I, for one, am so grateful that her special inspiration has been preserved and I agree--it should never fall out of print. Generations in the future need her perspective.

As good as her first but more about her creative process and the value of ballet. Has a beautiful section on how she created her memorial roles.

This book goes beyond "Dancing On My Grave" and extends the "happy ending." Gelsey describes her experiences with teaching. The best part was when she takes you through the rehearsals and performances of Romeo and Juliet. She describes how she develops the character, and makes the character come alive. I loved this book!

Kirkland's moving and in depth sequel to "Dancing on my Grave" is wonderful. She uses her experiences and struggles to find meaning and life in her dancing. From one who has been classically trained in ballet, but never been taught to feel emotion or a character, I am forever grateful to Ms. Kirkland for opening her life and sharing it with me. Please, if you dance, read this book!