The novel unfolds the intricate life of Joan, a professional ballet dancer who helps a Soviet ballet star defect to the West in the 1970s, an act that reverberates through her life. As Joan transitions away from her career and into motherhood in suburban California, her son Harry uncovers her past secrets while pursuing his own ballet career. The narrative weaves through the competitive world of professional ballet, exploring themes of sacrifice, obsession, the legacies we inherit, and the decisions that shape our destinies, all while capturing the demanding and ephemeral art of dance.

The 7852nd greatest book of all time