Bottom of the Pyramid

‘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.’ * Publishers Weekly *‘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 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 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’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 *

Nia Sioux is a dancer, singer, and actress who has performed on the small screen and in live performances, proving to be one of today’s most popular triple threats. Known for her breakout role as an original cast member in Lifetime’s hit series Dance Moms, Nia has since starred as a series regular on The Bold and The Beautiful. She has appeared in several movies, including Imperfect High, and two of her own digital series, one of which she served as an executive producer for. She was featured in Variety’s Power of Young Hollywood 2023 list. A graduate of UCLA with a degree American Literature and Culture, Nia continues to use her social media platforms to positively impact the lives of others. She highlights the accomplishments of inspiring others who have achieved extraordinary things in her Role Model Monday series. Nia is especially committed to encouraging voting, body positivity, and strengthening social justice.

This item is eligible for free returns within 30 days of delivery. See our returns policy for further details.