Through Acocella's examination of how Morris uses music and narrative line, and of the critical reaction (often violent) to him, we learn an immense amount-and not just about Morris. The author makes clear that the genius was always in Morris-and that, happily, he grew up in an environment in which it flourished. She describes the choreographer's Seattle childhood: a loving family excellent early dance training intense involvement in an extraordinary folk dancing group (Koleda). Acocella has interviewed Morris, as well as his family, friends, dancers-and critics-at length.

She also presents an infinitely more human, appealing Morris than is usually portrayed. Acocella (dance critic for New York's Daily News) has long championed Morris: here, by chronicling his early life and examining his works, she presents an extraordinary primer not only on how a choreographer develops but also on what dance can mean- and how it works. Choreographer Mark Morris always elicits extreme reactions in audiences-but even those who hate, or are baffled by, his work can't deny that he's one of the most important creative figures in dance.

Mark Morris by Joan Acocella