The only book of its kind, rewritten throughout, takes the mystery out of a confusing field. Dancers and students quickly benefit from the most current research - offering the latest information on hundreds of shoe designs, products and suppliers. The fundamentals of buying, preparing, and wearing pointe shoes are presented, including a detailed list of the many possible characteristics of each shoe. In discussing pointe shoe readiness, we present an array of contemporary views about when students should go on pointe - then, the way major ballet schools integrate pointe work into their classes, with in-depth opinions from David Howard, Suki Schorer and Steven Wistrich, among others. We take an intensive look at pointe-related injuries to the foot and ankle, their remedies, therapies, and exercises and medical and therapy providers. An understanding of the relationship between a ballerina and her shoes is gained by listening to the greatest dancers - like Paloma Herrera, Jenifer Ringer, Gillian Murphy and Evelyn Cisneros - talk about how they found the perfect fit and the joy of dancing on pointe.

"Part I: Basic Pointe Work: Beginner - Low Intermediate" is a redesigned, updated and expanded version of Thalia Mara's "Fourth Steps in Ballet: On Your Toes! Basic Pointe Work". Its purpose is to present a clear and simple exposition of beginner-low intermediate pointe work, while inspiring students towards higher achievements. "Part II: A Look at the USA International Ballet Competition" goes beyond the basics by providing information about preparation for competition. A history of the USA International Ballet Competition is given, along with interviews with competition winners who have gone on to professional careers. The section is intended to offer helpful advice from those who have "been there", and to encourage students to think about their future as dancers. The book concludes with a biography of Thalia Mara, detailing her many achievements as performer, teacher and writer.