This book is for anyone whose every been the understudy… your story matters too.

This memoir starts with Janine Kovac like other children  confronted by ballet through the Nutcracker. This set off a life long love between Kovac and ballet.  Kovac examines what drives us to continue to make art when we are not the ones winning the awards or getting the principal roles. Kovac also ends with one of her least acclaimed but deeply for-filling role of mother. I found this book inspiring in the way it tells us we are enough as we are.

Noteworthy moments: 
The book contains some beautiful poignant moments about drive like this one:
“”Are you okay?”
“Are you hurt?”
“Do you want a doctor?”
“Do you need anything?”
“Do you think you can dance tonight?”
I answered, “Yes,” to all the questions.”

The book also like the inclusion of what’s in the makeup bag and sewing kit in the between acts section.

Ideal Reader: 
A memoir reader looking for a feel-good inspiring journey. 
A reader who wants to know about behind the scenes of the ballet.
A reader who is interested journeys to motherhood.