The Shape of a Hundred Hips

Offering an insider’s perspective into the world of belly dancing, this text goes beyond the glitz factor of the artform to challenge assumptions people may have about it as suggestive or exotic. The Shape of a Hundred Hips is a memoir that juxtaposes dance and sexual assault recovery that takes the reader into the living room, bedroom, and dance class. It promotes the idea that people can gain insight and take greater control of their lives through intentional movement and artistic connection.

Patricia Cumbie writes about women’s lives, dance, food, and travel. She is also the author of a young adult novel, Where People Like Us Live, and the winner of the Carol Bly Award for Nonfiction.