Bottom of the Pyramid: A Memoir of Persevering, Dancing for Myself, and Starring in My Own Life

Nia Sioux became a star at age nine as an original cast member of Lifetime's reality TV show Dance Moms. Week after week, she learned choreography and competed against dancers from across the country while also competing at her own studio. One of her greatest challenges was her dance teacher's ranking system—the infamous pyramid—where Nia spent most of her time at the bottom, all broadcast to millions of viewers. Beyond what aired on screen, Nia faced experiences the show didn't capture: ostracism for not fitting a particular aesthetic, damaged friendships, mental health struggles, and loss of control over her own story and voice. This memoir goes behind the scenes of Dance Moms' seven seasons to show how Nia fought against negative perceptions during her tween and teen years and emerged as a confident young woman secure in her talents and direction. Rather than seeking pity, Nia uses her story as a celebration of triumph and resilience. She reclaims both the spotlight and her narrative, offering her account of overcoming barriers, constant criticism, and assumptions. Her message: only you know who you are, and you have the power to create your own narrative and define your own success.