“What this timely book forcefully shows is that we are social beings with a potential for collective activity that is not always destructive of docile but may be powerfully restorative. With the world political scene in crisis and the planet profoundly in need of our remedial help, it is a message to be welcomed, pondered—and enjoyed.”

“Ehrenreich’s absorbing study of collective celebration does the essential job of reminding us that humans are happiest when doings things together…Ehrenreich has an ability to write as though she has lived through the history she relates…She draws on research from prehistory, classical civilization, theology, anthropology, neuroscience, literature, and pop-cultural studies to present a convincing case for a return to spontaneous (but not too spontaneous) celebration…Once reconciled to the counterintuitive nature of spending hours alone reading a book that suggests you’d be better off dancing instead, time will fly and you’ll end it convinced that you’ve been in happy, wine-fuelled conversation with the author herself.”

“Witty and quizzical, Ehrenreich covers her vast terrain comprehensively yet incisively, casting her net wide and landing delicious detail at the same time as more strictly germane manner.”

“Ehrenreich writes with grace and clarity in a fascinating, wide-ranging and generous account.”

“Pam Ward…[makes] listening a joyous experience that holds listeners’ attention.”

“This book is remarkably well researched and detailed, and Ward reads it like a college professor in a clear, well modulated voice. Anyone interested in dance will be fascinated by the examples and stories.”

“A serious look at communal celebrations, well documented and presented with assurance and flair.”