by Derek Hough
First published 2014
Derek Hough won four Dancing With the Stars championships and earned an Emmy Award along the way. In this memoir, he traces his path from a bullied boy to the show's most successful professional dancer. Hough worked with Olympic athletes, recording artists, and actresses across eleven seasons, teaching each partner to find confidence and passion on the dance floor. He explains how his early struggles shaped his positive mindset and competitive drive. The book reveals behind-the-scenes moments from the ABC reality show and explores how Hough transformed nervous celebrities into poised performers. He argues that dance success depends on three core elements: genuine connection between partners, mutual respect, and shared commitment to improvement. Hough applies these dance principles to everyday challenges, showing readers how competition and collaboration can help anyone overcome obstacles and build confidence in their daily lives.
Genres: self-help, autobiography, memoir, non-fiction, biography-memoir
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: inspirational, personal-growth
208 pages · Hardcover · William Morrow