Amazon Category:  Young Adult/Teen Publisher: Millbrook Press ISBN-10:  0761317422 Pages: 112 Copyright: Jan 1 2002 A fascinating look at the tradition of decorating the skin, from ancient tribal and religious customs, to countercultures and political statements, to the most recent trends.

School Library Journal
A compelling overview of tattooing, piercing, and other body modifications. Gay and Whittington trace the roots of body decorations and modifications from ancient cultures where tattoos were marks of ownership for slaves or punishment for criminals to today's trends where celebrities and teens often sport both tattoos and piercings. The authors include good sections about safety precautions as well as warnings about the social implications of body modification. The tone throughout remains neutral, and the text is well researched and well organized. Good-quality full color and archival photos appear throughout.