Cheerleader!: An American Icon

Entertainers or athletes? Leaders or losers? There are 3.8 million cheerleaders in the U.S. alone, and they're part of everyone's memories. Looking beyond the pom poms, Cheerleader! explores how the sport reflects our beliefs about athletics, entertainment, and identity. Adams and Bettis trace cheerleading's history, from its inception as a male leadership activity, through the sassy era of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, to its incarnation as a demanding sport. Integrating interviews with participants and those in the business, Adams and Bettis celebrate cheering and provide critical discussion as well. A poignant, hilarious, and revealing look at a perennially popular activity.