Dancing Lessons: How I Found Passion and Potential on the Dance Floor and in Life

The inside story of the life of Cheryl Burke, professional dancer, choreographer, and two-time champion on the top-rated TV hit series Dancing with the Stars

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.

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 everyone to pursue their own dreams.

• 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 each of her celebrity partners on Dancing with the Stars, from Drew Lachey to Chad Ochocinco
• Includes never-before-discussed revelations concerning Cheryl's childhood, weight issues, and the media

Read Dancing Lessons and let Cheryl Burke whisk you away to a world full of dancing, entertainment, and life.

Q&A with Author Cheryl Burke

What drew you to the world of dance?
As a young child, my mom got me involved in the typical ballet classes that a lot of girls take. When I was a little older, I went with my parents to a ballroom class they were taking and instantly fell in love with the costumes and the music. And I loved that it was partner dancing.

What inspired you to write Dancing Lessons?
Since being on Dancing with the Stars I’ve encountered a lot of people who’ve asked me about my dance background, my training and my childhood. I thought that if I could write a book that inspires people to take up dance or to find their passion and they can learn from it like I have, then it would be worth it to write a book.

What do you think people can learn about life through dance?
Compromise. Sharing. Teamwork. You can learn to express yourself with your body. Sometimes words fail to really convey emotion, and dance teaches you body language and interpretation.

What is your favorite part of being on Dancing with the Stars?
The best part of being involved in Dancing with the Stars is inspiring people of all ages to get up and dance. When people approach me and say that I’ve motivated them to get off the couch and be more active; to enroll in dance class; or when young kids want to take dance lessons, that’s my inspiration to be part of the show.

If you could offer one piece of advice to your fans, what would you tell them?
Find your passion. Once you do, nothing can stop you.

Dance Tips from Author Cheryl Burke

General Dance Tip
No matter what dance you perform, you should have fun doing it – and don’t ever fake it. When I dance, I don’t put on any show faces. Facial expressions are an extension of the body’s expressions and should come from somewhere special and authentic. When you feel the dance and the music, that, in turn dictates how you will emote. People can tell if you’re being artificial.

Salsa Tip
There’s a lot of hip action and body pulsing in the salsa, so quick feet are a must. Women also need good flexibility and the ability to spin fast without getting dizzy.

Quickstep Tip
This is a high-energy dance in which the partners must keep holding on to each other. You have to be light on your feet and move around the floor as a unit. And don’t forget to smile.

Rumba Tip
You need to be flexible, sexy, and sensual with your partner. Focus on good hip action. You move much more slowly than in the salsa, but movement is key.

CHERYL BURKE is the only professional dancer to appear four times in the finals of ABC's top-rated show Dancing with the Stars; she is a two-time back-to-back champion. She owns two dance studios in California.