Cheryl Burke
'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.'
Gabrielle Union
'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.'
Alyson Stoner
'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.'
Misty Copeland
'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.'
Artistic director of Alvin Ailey American Dance Th Alicia Graf Mack
'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.'
Chloé Lukasiak
'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.'
Publishers Weekly
'In this solid autobiography, Dance Moms cast member Sioux (Today I Dance, a picture book) opens up about her experience as the reality show's only Black dancer. She first joined the Abby Lee Dance Company at age three, six years before the show—which followed the company—premiered. By the time Dance Moms was in full swing, Sioux was regularly singled out as the company's weak link, frequently coming last in coach Abby Lee Miller's weekly rankings. Sioux, who spent seven seasons on the show, recalls her desperate attempts to stay in Miller's good graces, despite constant dismissal and racist microaggressions ('Don't you just wish you had white-girl hair,' Miller asked her at one point). To cope, she drew strength from her tight-knit family and the therapeutic power of writing down her experiences. After leaving the show before its final season, Sioux pivoted to acting, starring in The Bold and the Beautiful and 2024's Mean Girls remake. Sioux's harrowing reality TV ordeal cuts deep, and her subsequent self-assurance is endearing and infectious. It adds up to an inspiring account of reclaiming artistic agency.'
Global superstar and legendary singer of “I Gloria Gaynor
'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.'
Tay Lautner
'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.'
Author of Token Black Girl and The Rules of Fortun Danielle Prescod
'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.'
