The book is widely praised as an impressive and immersive biography, offering a valuable look behind the scenes of the Dutch dance world from the 1960s to 1970s. Reviewers highlight its significance as an epic about a uniquely talented ballerina, Olga de Haas, who perhaps did not receive sufficient recognition. It is seen as a crucial contribution to understanding the origins and professionalization of the National Ballet and dance in the Netherlands generally. Many found the story captivating, appreciating how it allows readers to get to know Olga well despite her perceived aloofness, and noting its capacity to evoke strong empathy for her struggles and experiences. For some, it stands out as one of the best ballerina biographies, making it a powerful and worthwhile read.
Disliked
Despite its strengths, some reviewers expressed reservations about certain aspects of the book. A recurring point of criticism concerns the writing style, which some found inconsistent, questioning whether it leans more towards non-fiction or a novel. Specific comments mentioned the prose was not always strong, and that editorial work could have been sharper. Additionally, the balance between Olga's personal narrative and the broader historical background of ballet companies was sometimes seen as uneven, with lengthy background information occasionally detracting from the protagonist's story. One reviewer also felt the narrative could be a bit sentimental at times, and another found that the story, despite an interesting subject, never fully became engaging.
In short
Overall, the book presents a deeply moving and often painful, yet ultimately rewarding, account of a highly talented ballerina's life and the immense pressures of her career. It sheds light on the demanding and sometimes unforgiving nature of the professional dance world during a pivotal era in Dutch ballet history. This book is highly recommended for dance enthusiasts and those interested in the history of Dutch culture and the arts. It will also appeal to readers who appreciate biographies that explore the psychological challenges and human cost of pursuing excellence in a demanding field, even with the noted inconsistencies in writing style.