Spring Break Reading List: 7 Must-Reads for Dancers
Spring break is the perfect time for dancers to rest, recharge, and get lost in a good book.
Whether you’re lounging on the beach, traveling to an audition, or simply enjoying a staycation with some time off from rehearsals, these seven engrossing reads are perfect for dancers looking to get lost in a good story.
From page-turning novels to inspiring memoirs, each book on this list will pull you in and keep you hooked—so you can enjoy a well-deserved break while still fueling your passion for dance.
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The Still Point by Tammy Greenwood
"Dance Moms meets Little Fires Everywhere in award-winning author Tammy Greenwood’s addictive new novel set in the hyper-cutthroat world of ballet girls and their mothers as they compete for a prestigious prize…"
Addictive it was - as one book club member shared “Okay, can’t put it down. Been binge reading it and stayed up til 2 am last night soaking it in.”.
The perfect vacation read to get lost in!
The Sleeping Beauties by Lucy Ashe
This book had me riveted from the first word.
As one Goodreads reader shared:
"The story has everything: drama, mystery, suspense and ballet. If you love historical fiction with a twist of intrigue and well-developed characters, you’ll definitely enjoy this one…especially the enigmatic Briar, who keeps you guessing about her true intentions."
They’re Going to Love You by Meg Howrey
“A gripping and gorgeously written novel of heartbreaking intensity. With psychological precision and a masterfully revealed secret at its heart, it asks what it takes to be an artist in America, and the price of forgiveness, of ambition, and of love."
When I tell you I'm obsessed with this book - holy moly, it's got everything. An easy enough read to take with you to the beach but with so much substance you'll find yourself deep in thought after putting it down.
Putting My Heels Down by Kara Tatelbaum
“[This book] exposes the harsh realities of life as a dancer but more importantly, the conflict so many of us experience between having a day job and having a dream. You won’t need to know about pliés to relate."
Kara is so raw and relatable - I found myself nodding along with so many of her stories as I recounted my experiences as a professional dancer trying to balance my career and my day job. This is definitely a must read!
Pas de Don’t by Chloe Angyal
This book is spice level 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ and definitely intended for mature audiences - as Chloe says in the acknowledgments, "my parents are not allowed to read this book".
As for me - I absolutely couldn't put it down as I dove deeper into the story of forbidden love between Heather and Marcus, two dancers in a company with a strict no-dating policy - even a hint of romance could cost them both their jobs.
Pointe of Pride by Chloe Angyal
The sequel to Pas de Don’t, this book is also spice level 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ and completely engrossing.
The main characters, Carly and Nick, are complex, full of insecurities and imperfections. As they navigate the tricky waters of new love, they are also grappling with the instability of their dance careers, the uncertainty of transitioning away from a life of performing as well as health issues, specifically Carly's pelvic floor dysfunction.
The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown
Perfection? In dancers? No way. 😉
The Gifts of Imperfection was my introduction to Brené Brown and after polishing it off in one sitting, I very quickly devoured the rest of her books. I am convinced anything and everything Brené Brown should be required reading for every dancer (actually, every human).
It’s a quick read that will have a lasting impact on how you approach both life and work.
Love getting lost in a good book?
Join The Brainy Ballerina Book Club - a free, no-pressure community for dance lovers who crave inspiring reads, deep conversations, and meaningful connections.
Whether you're looking to expand your knowledge, feed your soul, or simply share your love of books with fellow dancers, you’ll feel right at home. Come read with us!
Meet the Author
Caitlin Sloan is a Dance Educator and Career Mentor based in Madison, WI.
Caitlin received her Bachelor of Arts in Dance from Grand Valley State University and Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management from the University of Missouri.
She danced professionally for nine years with companies including Ballet Tucson and Missouri Contemporary Ballet (now Mareck Dance). Caitlin has taught at schools all over the Midwest, most notably serving as Director of The School of Missouri Contemporary Ballet and Youth Company Director for Central Indiana Dance Ensemble. She is currently on faculty at the School of Madison Ballet.
Caitlin founded The Brainy Ballerina® in 2019, a virtual resource providing support and guidance for aspiring ballet dancers. Follow @thebrainyballerina on Instagram for your daily dose of dance career guidance and inspiration.
