In this ethnographic study, Kaschl examines the history of two related and competing Palestinian and Israeli folk dance forms. The focus is on how these forms known as dabkeh and debkah , respectively represent a contested cultural essence of both Palestinian and Israeli nationalism. The performances of three dance troupes (one Israeli and two Palestinian) are analyzed within this context. Kaschl holds a PhD (2002) in Middle Eastern Studies from the U. of Berne. The text is based upon her dissertation. Annotation (c) Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)