Customizing the Body: The Art and Culture of Tattooing, Revised and Expanded Edition Book

I have no hesitation in saying that this book has introduced me to a new lens and general perspective on the sub-culture of Tattooing. But I can't help but find every chapter dissatisfying only because it would pick a new topic to talk about and make it apparent that this book had chosen multiple points of time and spread an overview on a generalized version rather than making a few things clearer. I couldn't find myself emotionally infatuated with this novel just because I simply can't relate to a lot of it. As an artist it was easy to understand enough to see that with time, we changed our view on the sub-culture and how tattoos were introduced--Or rather, exposed to the public eye. Having that alienated perspective that I had 3 years ago has simply left me entirely in awe at this novel. It's eye opening to understand the symbolism and culture behind this piece. Although I found it hard to read for a long period of time (Due to the consistency and my disinterest in non-fiction). I respect the message it portrays and would recommend this to teens or young adults who are considering getting a tattoo in the future.