Bottom of the Pyramid - by Nia Sioux (Hardcover)

About the Book

When you've been told over and over that you belong at the bottom, how do you come out on top? Dance Moms star and triple threat Nia Sioux shows the way via her story of resilience, triumph, and defining success for herself.

Book Synopsis

When you've been told over and over that you belong at the bottom, how do you come out on top? Dance Moms star and triple threat Nia Sioux shows the way via her story of resilience, triumph, and defining success for herself.

Young dancer Nia Sioux was only nine years old when she stepped into stardom as one of the original cast members of Lifetime's reality TV show Dance Moms. Nia learned new choreography week after week and competed against dancers from across the country as well as at her own studio. Perhaps her greatest obstacle was suffering through her dance teacher's ranking of the girls against each other in her infamous pyramid, where Nia spent the majority of her time on the bottom--all in front of an audience of millions.

But there was much that viewers didn't see. How her experiences in the studio went far beyond what made it into the show. How she was ostracized for not fitting into an aesthetic that wasn't designed for girls like her. How her friendships and her mental health crumbled under the strain of the show. How she lost control of her story and her voice.

But don't be fooled--this is a story about resilience. Nia is not looking for pity, sympathy, or validation as she reflects on her experiences. Instead, she is choosing to use her story as a celebration of triumph. Nia finally gets to tell her story in her own way and in her own words. In this captivating memoir, Nia reclaims both the spotlight and her narrative.

In addition to going behind the scenes of the seven seasons of Dance Moms, she shows how she fought against the negative perceptions that dominated her tween and teen years and emerged as a confident young woman secure in her talents and her direction. Anyone who has ever felt misunderstood, overlooked, or stuck at the bottom of the pyramid will be inspired by Nia's story of overcoming. "Despite barriers and constant naysayers, assumptions and criticisms, only you know who you are inside and out," Nia says. "And you have the power to create your own narrative, your own level of success."

Review Quotes

'I was hooked on Bottom of the Pyramid the moment I opened it--I finished in one sitting! A beautiful reminder to cherish what matters and face difficulties with courage.'--Chloé Lukasiak, Actress, author, and dancer

'Nia endured a childhood that was commodified for our mass entertainment, while having her own inner world, health, and humanity silenced. Bottom of the Pyramid honors the grit it took to survive such a uniquely intense experience and her commitment to challenging and revising the narratives assigned to her. There is nothing more powerful than hearing this story directly from the source--in Nia's own words.'--Alyson Stoner, Actor, author, and founder/CEO of Movement Genius

'Nia leads with so much grace and strength. Her story is a beautiful reminder that you don't have to fit into someone else's mold to find your voice and make an impact. I'm so inspired by her journey and all the light she's putting into the world.'--Misty Copeland, Ballerina, author, and philanthropist

'Nia tells her story with bravery and maturity beyond her years. She does not shy away from addressing the more difficult and complex emotions around race, identity, and growing up in the public eye. She is genuine in her explorations and in the retelling of what we might think we know from watching Dance Moms. It is remarkable that she emerged as a whole and well-adjusted woman from the clutches of the competitive dance world and reality TV. This is a book that reckons with the tension between having your story controlled, edited, and distributed without your direct input and telling it yourself. It is a must-read for anyone seeking deeper understanding of the fact that what you see is not necessarily the full truth.'--Danielle Prescod, Author of Token Black Girl and The Rules of Fortune

'Nia Sioux's memoir is a powerful reclamation of identity, truth, and resilience. As someone who's spent a lifetime in the dance world, I've witnessed how much courage it takes to stand tall in an industry that often tries to shrink you. Nia's story is raw, inspiring, and deeply human. She offers an unfiltered look at the price of fame, the weight of being the only one who looks like you in the room, and the strength it takes to keep showing up with grace. This book is not just about dance--it's about reclaiming your power, finding your voice, and writing your own story. I'm so proud of Nia for turning pain into purpose. Bottom of the Pyramid is a must-read for anyone who's ever been underestimated and dared to rise anyway.'--Cheryl Burke, Twenty-six-season Dancing with the Stars alumna, mental health advocate, beauty creator, podcaster, and author

'Nia Sioux's story is one of perseverance, strength, and inner peace. Anyone seeking inspiration to reach their highest potential and productivity will likely find valuable lessons in her journey. I highly recommend this motivational memoir.'--Gloria Gaynor, Global superstar and legendary singer of "I Will Survive"

'Nia's memoir is a powerful testament to resilience and grace. Growing up in front of the world to witness and critique, she has emerged as a woman of great integrity who knows herself deeply. Her story will undoubtedly inspire young people to pursue their dreams while staying true to who they are.'--Alicia Graf Mack, Artistic director of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

'What Nia has done here is timely and moving. She's removed the gloss on fame and perfection and delivered something so raw, so honest, and so necessary. I wish every young girl, especially young Black girls, could read this story of knowing your worth, protecting your peace, and rewriting the narrative in your own voice.'--Gabrielle Union, Actress, producer, activist, and New York Times bestselling author

'What Nia has done in these pages is brave and beautiful. Her story is proof that you can overcome challenges and come out the other side with grace, clarity, and a deep sense of purpose. I know this book will resonate with anyone who has ever felt misunderstood, overlooked, or silenced.'--Tay Lautner, Podcast host, mental health advocate, and digital content creator