Dancing Lessons

Cheryl Burke has been dancing since the age of four and competing since she was thirteen years old. Over several exciting seasons, she has captivated audiences of Dancing with the Stars with her incredible dance performances, Emmy-nominated choreography, high energy, and bright smile. In Dancing Lessons, she takes you from her childhood years into the world of competitive ballroom dancing and on to Dancing with the Stars.

• Includes behind-the-scenes stories and photos from the life of the first two-time champion of Dancing with the Stars
• Shares lessons Cheryl has learned from her celebrity partners on Dancing with the Stars, from Drew Lachey to Chad Ochocinco
• Includes personal revelations concerning Cheryl's childhood, weight issues, and the media

In Dancing Lessons, Cheryl Burke whisks you away to a world full of dancing, entertainment, and living to the max. In each chapter, you will discover a depth of passion in Cheryl's life that perfectly matches the commitment she displays on the dance floor. Cheryl's accounts of being a powerful woman putting her talent to work will inspire readers everywhere to pursue their own dreams.

"Not only an amazing dancer, but a kick-ass woman to look up to."
—Jenny McCarthy

Acknowledgments xi

INTRODUCTION 1

1 THE FREESTYLE 7
Finding Myself in the Spotlight

2 THE CHA-CHA-CHA 21
My First Steps

3 THE JIVE 49
The Ballroom World

4 THE SALSA 79
Parties and Paparazzi, Reputation and Responsibility

5 THE PASO DOBLE 103
Fighting Back

6 THE RUMBA 121
Learning to Love My Body

7 THE QUICKSTEP 143
Branching Out

8 THE VIENNESE WALTZ 163
Grace under Pressure

9 BEHIND THE SCENES 177
A Day in the Life at Dancing with the Stars

10 THANKS, PARTNERS 191
Partners for a Season, Lessons for a Lifetime

Afterword 233