Stories from Inside the Mirror a Bellydance Anthology by Sharif

Reviewed by Anala Rabari

Stories from Inside the Mirror is a collection of 40 articles written by a wide range of dancers including cabaret, tribal, fusion, and male dancers.  The topics range from heartbreaking poignantency to roll on the floor laughing humor.  There are stories of family being supportive and condemning.  The struggle to gain acceptance in a disapproving community, the struggle to gain self acceptance.  Stories of the dance healing medical conditions and being an escape from abuse.  The humbling experience of costume malfunctions and the stories of childhood dreams being fulfilled.

 Although there weren't any articles that I didn't like the ones that stood out the most to me were a collection of interviews with dancrs and their husbands, a few articles written by a dancer's husband, and an article by a male dancer.  These stood out the most to me because they are a side of the dance I rearely get to look at.

 The book ends with 4 choreographies for you to try.  Some are geared toward solos and some for groups.  The song & artist information are included for those who really want to learn them.  Also included is information on picking a dance name complete with a short dictionary,  As well as a guide to Middle Eastern instruments and rhythms.

 A number of the articles are written by non-native English speakers and a few of the articles also include a version of the article in their native language.  I feel this was a lovely touch to help the author express themselves.  Beautiful photos and illustrations are included with each article helping give a more personal touch to the project.

 My only complaint is that some of the articles were just too short and I wanted to know more about these dancers.  Luckily geographic lcations, emails, and website address are included for most of the authors

 If you love learning how others found belly dance, why they love bellydance, what they've gained from bellydance and how it has tought their lives than this book is defintely for you.