The Still Point

Ever, Lindsay, and Josie have ushered their daughters—Bea, Olive, and Savvy—through years of dance classes. They've tended bloodied feet, stitched ribbons to countless pairs of pointe shoes, and forged friendships that seem to transcend rivalry.

But now Etienne Bernay, enfant terrible of French ballet, has come to their conservatory. Not only will he direct this year's production of The Nutcracker, but he's brought along a film crew to document his search for one special student who will receive a full scholarship to the Ballet de Paris Academie. For the girls, this is the chance to fulfill lifelong dreams. For Ever, recently widowed and struggling financially, it may be the only way to keep Bea dancing. And Bea is a truly gifted dancer.

Lindsay, meanwhile, frets that Olive is growing tired of the punishing reality of training, while Josie has no such qualms about Savvy, who is a powerhouse of ambition.

From auditions to casting to rehearsals, the cameras capture the selection process, with its backstabbing and jealousy, disappointment and triumph. But it's behind the scenes that Bernay's arrival will yield the most shocking revelations, exposing secrets and lies of all three families.

©2024 T. Greenwood (P)2024 Tantor

Very good listen

I loved this book very much. The characters were multidimensional and realistic, with plot lines that kept me engaged the whole way through.

Beautiful story of the complex lives of ballet dancers and their moms

A compelling behind-the-scenes view of the drama that plays out in the competitive world of youth ballet. The stories of each girl-mom pair are intricately woven into a rich tapestry. Beautifully written, vivid characters.

Riveting story

I loved this story, it was really an engaging read with great imagery and a twisting turning storyline. The characters all had interesting and quirky personalities, I cried and chuckled and was caught up completely.