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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.
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.
11 pages, Audible Audio
First published February 20, 2024
163 people are currently reading
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About the author
Tammy Greenwood
2 books145 followersAuthor writes under the penname T. Greenwood as well.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 371 reviews
January 11, 2024
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The Storygraph and The Book Review Crew Blog
She recalled the quiet moments after they’d been talking in the darkness for hours, that magical still point in the middle of the night.
I did dance as a kid but not ballet. I tapped danced (even managed to win a gold medal) and took jazz lessons. We used to perform for care homes and I was a majorette in parades as well. I don't remember the mothers or the other dance kids behaving the way they did in this book. But we danced for fun, not for scholarships or to become professionals. I remember when I discovered boys (or they discovered me) I quit. My mom was disappointed but quickly got over it when I joined an ice hockey team and became a power forward.
I love Tammy Greenwood's books and have read everything she has ever written. She is a master storyteller and tells this one from experience as her daughter is a ballet dancer. You don't have to be a dancer to enjoy this one because it is basically about competition and the lengths we go through for our kids and to win. The dancers in this story physically and mentally break down often. It borders on abuse.
I loved how character-driven this was and what a bunch of characters they are. The reader gets to know them well through chapters from each character's point of view. What I really took away from this is what dancers and mothers sacrifice for their craft and because of that, I found this such an emotional and powerful read. I learned a lot about ballet and found it intriguing and interesting as well.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
The Storygraph and The Book Review Crew Blog
She recalled the quiet moments after they’d been talking in the darkness for hours, that magical still point in the middle of the night.
I did dance as a kid but not ballet. I tapped danced (even managed to win a gold medal) and took jazz lessons. We used to perform for care homes and I was a majorette in parades as well. I don't remember the mothers or the other dance kids behaving the way they did in this book. But we danced for fun, not for scholarships or to become professionals. I remember when I discovered boys (or they discovered me) I quit. My mom was disappointed but quickly got over it when I joined an ice hockey team and became a power forward.
I love Tammy Greenwood's books and have read everything she has ever written. She is a master storyteller and tells this one from experience as her daughter is a ballet dancer. You don't have to be a dancer to enjoy this one because it is basically about competition and the lengths we go through for our kids and to win. The dancers in this story physically and mentally break down often. It borders on abuse.
I loved how character-driven this was and what a bunch of characters they are. The reader gets to know them well through chapters from each character's point of view. What I really took away from this is what dancers and mothers sacrifice for their craft and because of that, I found this such an emotional and powerful read. I learned a lot about ballet and found it intriguing and interesting as well.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
August 10, 2024
3.5 Rounded Down.
I enjoyed this mostly because it incorporated two of my favorite subjects - ballet and surfing (to a lesser extent in the book). The setting for one of the main characters was on the beach which made it even better.
The story and writing kept my interest although I wasn't wowed.
I enjoyed this mostly because it incorporated two of my favorite subjects - ballet and surfing (to a lesser extent in the book). The setting for one of the main characters was on the beach which made it even better.
The story and writing kept my interest although I wasn't wowed.
February 10, 2024
At the still point of the turning world.
Neither flesh nor flesless;
Neither from nor towards;
at the still point, there the dance is. . .
This is a firecracker of a book. Don't pass it by thinking you can't relate to a bunch of ballet moms. This book deals with loss, youthful indiscretions, social media, infidelity, competition, and so much more. The competition for a scholarship to the Paris company brings out the worst in the dancers and their parents. I thoroughly enjoyed this read. My theory is that Tammy Greenwood should stick to books about ballet. This is my fourth read in her title list. The two I have given 5-star ratings to are ballet (Nutcracker adjacent) plots. I loved the Author's Note at the beginning and the Reading Group Guide and Glossary at the end. A complete package! 🩰
Thank you to Kensington and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Neither flesh nor flesless;
Neither from nor towards;
at the still point, there the dance is. . .
This is a firecracker of a book. Don't pass it by thinking you can't relate to a bunch of ballet moms. This book deals with loss, youthful indiscretions, social media, infidelity, competition, and so much more. The competition for a scholarship to the Paris company brings out the worst in the dancers and their parents. I thoroughly enjoyed this read. My theory is that Tammy Greenwood should stick to books about ballet. This is my fourth read in her title list. The two I have given 5-star ratings to are ballet (Nutcracker adjacent) plots. I loved the Author's Note at the beginning and the Reading Group Guide and Glossary at the end. A complete package! 🩰
Thank you to Kensington and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
December 24, 2025
3 stars
Likely because of my own illustrious dance career which lasted from first grade to third grade. I am not graceful.) I’m a sucker for books about the ballet, and not only because there are usually shenanigans going on behind the scenes. Bring on the cutthroatedness! Blood on the toe shoes!
This covers, primarily, three dance moms (and Bob) and their daughters as they vie for prominence, the favor of a visiting teacher and a scholarship to a corps in Paris during their senior year of high school. There’s a lot of the usual heartache and drama for both moms and teens and a fairly standard villain but I still enjoyed this in a not-having-to-think-too-hard kind of way, which is, sometimes, exactly what I want. Lots of ballet terms used but not much performance here, mostly just angst. If it sounds good to you, you’ll know it’s for you.
Likely because of my own illustrious dance career which lasted from first grade to third grade. I am not graceful.) I’m a sucker for books about the ballet, and not only because there are usually shenanigans going on behind the scenes. Bring on the cutthroatedness! Blood on the toe shoes!
This covers, primarily, three dance moms (and Bob) and their daughters as they vie for prominence, the favor of a visiting teacher and a scholarship to a corps in Paris during their senior year of high school. There’s a lot of the usual heartache and drama for both moms and teens and a fairly standard villain but I still enjoyed this in a not-having-to-think-too-hard kind of way, which is, sometimes, exactly what I want. Lots of ballet terms used but not much performance here, mostly just angst. If it sounds good to you, you’ll know it’s for you.
January 24, 2024
This is a story about ballet. It is a story about mothers and daughters. But, it is a story about so much more.
We get to see the ballet version of the soccer mom. We get to see the competitiveness of young girls (and a few young boys) at a private ballet school. And, we also are privy to the soap opera-ish lives of the mothers. The mothers' influence is reflected in the daughters' actions and personalities.
Each chapter is told from a different character's perspective. The author is great at building suspense. This is not a classic psychological thriller by any means, but each chapter seems to leave you hanging. The next chapter is from another character's point of few, so the reader is obliged to wait. And, it made this reader turn the pages faster. I couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next.
Character-driven and plot-driven. I must admit, in the beginning, it was hard to keep the characters straight and to remember which daughter belonged to which mom. But it didn't take long to immerse myself in the story. It definitely kept my interest.
I knew of many little girls who took ballet lessons but I never realized how disciplined and gruelling and competitive it could be. Very interesting.
Great ending! Great read!
I have been a fan of Ms Greenwood for many years, I have read most of her books. Each book has been unique. I never know what to expect but I've never been a disappointed.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
We get to see the ballet version of the soccer mom. We get to see the competitiveness of young girls (and a few young boys) at a private ballet school. And, we also are privy to the soap opera-ish lives of the mothers. The mothers' influence is reflected in the daughters' actions and personalities.
Each chapter is told from a different character's perspective. The author is great at building suspense. This is not a classic psychological thriller by any means, but each chapter seems to leave you hanging. The next chapter is from another character's point of few, so the reader is obliged to wait. And, it made this reader turn the pages faster. I couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next.
Character-driven and plot-driven. I must admit, in the beginning, it was hard to keep the characters straight and to remember which daughter belonged to which mom. But it didn't take long to immerse myself in the story. It definitely kept my interest.
I knew of many little girls who took ballet lessons but I never realized how disciplined and gruelling and competitive it could be. Very interesting.
Great ending! Great read!
I have been a fan of Ms Greenwood for many years, I have read most of her books. Each book has been unique. I never know what to expect but I've never been a disappointed.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
February 13, 2024
Bea's dancing has been one of few bright spots in her mother Ever's life this past year, which saw the loss of Ever's husband and financial stability—and with a scholarship on the line, suddenly this season of dance matters more than ever. But Ever and Bea aren't the only ones desperate for that scholarship: Bea's onetime best friend Olive dances at the same studio, as does her nemesis Savvy...not to mention the other girls who dream of dancing in Paris. Not to mention their parents.
This is mostly a book about those parents: Ever, of course; and her best friend Lindsay, who might be more invested in Olive's dance prospects than Olive is; and Josie, who dreams of seeing Savvy having an independence—without relying on a man—that she herself never really had.
Greenwood is herself a dance mom—in the author's note, she describes the book as a "love letter" and "also a story of what happens when ambition becomes a dark thing" (loc.152*). But it's fiction, fortunately, a version of dark ambition that neither she nor her daughter experienced.
Ballet books are one of those things that I have no personal stake in but love reading anyway, which means that I've inevitably read my fair share of the darker side of things—ground glass in pointe shoes and all. (You'd better believe that made me nervous when a certain character was gifted some pointe shoes...) But this is the restrained side of dark, and it's better for it: yes, there are characters, numerous characters, who do not always act as stand-up members of society...but even when they're being petty and unkind, jealous and calculating, we can see where they're coming from and why.
A side note: There's a point(e) to be made here about the ways in which people who are successful (or attractive, or confident, or all of the above) in certain spheres are allowed to get away with far more than they should—the way a particular male character is allowed to run rampant through the pages, tossing out small grenades and then smirking to see them land. He is not in himself particularly interesting, but the blind eye that so many other characters turn is.
All round a satisfying read. I believe I've had my eye on one or two of the author's other books for quite some time, so I may have to bump those up the queue.
Thanks to the author and publisher for providing a review copy through NetGalley.
*I read an ARC, and quotes may not be final.
This is mostly a book about those parents: Ever, of course; and her best friend Lindsay, who might be more invested in Olive's dance prospects than Olive is; and Josie, who dreams of seeing Savvy having an independence—without relying on a man—that she herself never really had.
Greenwood is herself a dance mom—in the author's note, she describes the book as a "love letter" and "also a story of what happens when ambition becomes a dark thing" (loc.152*). But it's fiction, fortunately, a version of dark ambition that neither she nor her daughter experienced.
Ballet books are one of those things that I have no personal stake in but love reading anyway, which means that I've inevitably read my fair share of the darker side of things—ground glass in pointe shoes and all. (You'd better believe that made me nervous when a certain character was gifted some pointe shoes...) But this is the restrained side of dark, and it's better for it: yes, there are characters, numerous characters, who do not always act as stand-up members of society...but even when they're being petty and unkind, jealous and calculating, we can see where they're coming from and why.
A side note: There's a point(e) to be made here about the ways in which people who are successful (or attractive, or confident, or all of the above) in certain spheres are allowed to get away with far more than they should—the way a particular male character is allowed to run rampant through the pages, tossing out small grenades and then smirking to see them land. He is not in himself particularly interesting, but the blind eye that so many other characters turn is.
All round a satisfying read. I believe I've had my eye on one or two of the author's other books for quite some time, so I may have to bump those up the queue.
Thanks to the author and publisher for providing a review copy through NetGalley.
*I read an ARC, and quotes may not be final.
November 22, 2023
Tammy Greenwood is a master storyteller. Her latest portrays the highly competitive world of ballet, which was fascinating. Multiple narrators create intrigue and suspense. The character development is outstanding and readers will devour this. For fans of Eliza Jane Brazier and Megan Abbott.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, Kensington and Tammy Greenwood for my complimentary e-copy ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, Kensington and Tammy Greenwood for my complimentary e-copy ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
September 23, 2023
I think no book review can ever justify how exceptional this book is! This book has the realest characters. I literally don’t know what to write rn… I’m speechless. It might sound like a lot but I feel like this could be a classic. I said what I said.
I picked this book because it mentioned ballet, but it was so much more than a competition for a ballet scholarship!! I was about love, loss, family, relationships, friendship, motherhood, sacrifices, jealousy, struggles (both parents and children), parenthood, backstabbing, disappointment, victory, acceptance omg the list is never ending!
The characters were so real like everyone in real life, no one is all good or all bad, we act according to the circumstances, according to what felt right, you can never blame a single person for what they did or didn’t and this book covered all this beautifully. I’m just not able to write how I am feeling right now, all I can say is that you need to read this book! Like really! Add this to your tbr, you’ll really thank me for this one 😭😭😭😭
(ARC from NetGalley)
I picked this book because it mentioned ballet, but it was so much more than a competition for a ballet scholarship!! I was about love, loss, family, relationships, friendship, motherhood, sacrifices, jealousy, struggles (both parents and children), parenthood, backstabbing, disappointment, victory, acceptance omg the list is never ending!
The characters were so real like everyone in real life, no one is all good or all bad, we act according to the circumstances, according to what felt right, you can never blame a single person for what they did or didn’t and this book covered all this beautifully. I’m just not able to write how I am feeling right now, all I can say is that you need to read this book! Like really! Add this to your tbr, you’ll really thank me for this one 😭😭😭😭
(ARC from NetGalley)
March 1, 2024
3.5 stars
This was an entertaining read it's like a chick-lit type of book filled with drama, betrayal and lust. It mainly centers around three young friends who have grown up together attending ballet class who aspire to make it big in the dance world someday. Bea, Olive and Savvy are good friends each gifted with their own unique way of dancing, together they have faced the challenges of sprains, bloody feet and sore limbs as they have danced since they were little girls but they are also competitors when it comes to coveted dance roles in productions. When a famous, suave French ballet master decides to come to their school and put on a production of the Nutcracker and ultimately choose a dancer to win a scholarship to the prestigious Paris Ballet, the girls and their mothers bring the claws out. Was anxiously awaiting this one and I enjoyed reading about the rigors of being a dancer and the beauty of ballet.
This was an entertaining read it's like a chick-lit type of book filled with drama, betrayal and lust. It mainly centers around three young friends who have grown up together attending ballet class who aspire to make it big in the dance world someday. Bea, Olive and Savvy are good friends each gifted with their own unique way of dancing, together they have faced the challenges of sprains, bloody feet and sore limbs as they have danced since they were little girls but they are also competitors when it comes to coveted dance roles in productions. When a famous, suave French ballet master decides to come to their school and put on a production of the Nutcracker and ultimately choose a dancer to win a scholarship to the prestigious Paris Ballet, the girls and their mothers bring the claws out. Was anxiously awaiting this one and I enjoyed reading about the rigors of being a dancer and the beauty of ballet.
April 28, 2024
An excellent read for any mother who has raised a ballerina daughter and for any woman who grew up as a ballerina herself. While the story didn’t make me miss some of the dance moms I encountered throughout the years. It sure flooded me with fond memories of chauffeuring my ballerina to and from class and rehearsals, stitching ribbons on pointe shoes, missing her terribly while she was away at summer intensives, and the complete joy felt while watching her dance on stages large and small. 🩰 ♥️
March 22, 2024
Dance Moms in literature form
February 20, 2024
Master storyteller Tammy Greenwood (or T. Greenwood) returns following Such a Pretty Girl with her most personal and captivating novel yet, THE STILL POINT.
With the author's firsthand knowledge (ballet mom), she masterfully takes us inside the world of ballet, the sacrifices, competition, dreams, desires, and ambitions —from dancers to moms —and, most importantly, a love letter to her daughter, mothers, and ballet. (a beautiful Author's Note)
Set in a coastal Southern California town to New York, moms Ever (writer), Josie, and Lindsay have been friends since their daughters, Bea, Savvy, and Olive, began ballet lessons from rehearsals to competitions and everything in between.
However, ambition trumps friendship and a fight for a sought-after scholarship with a prestigious prize —GAME ON!
At the center of the unrest, testing the friendships of the girls and moms, is Etienne Bernay—a twenty-seven-year-old principal at Ballet de Paris. Not only will he direct this year's production of The Nutcracker, but an award-winning film crew will document this journey.
He would join the CLCB faculty for the fall semester and assist Vivienne with the Conservatory's production of The Nutcracker. He would select one dancer to send back to the Ballet de Paris Academie for the spring term on a scholarship he would sponsor.
The prize: One student who will receive a full scholarship to the Ballet de Paris Academie. For the girls, it is a chance of a lifetime.
THE STILL POINT follows three mothers and three daughters while the girls compete for a scholarship. Each character has their own issues. Told creatively in Acts and Scenes, from POVs: Bea, Ever, Josie, Lindsay.
Ever recently widowed is struggling financially, it may be the only way to keep Bea dancing. Bea is a truly gifted dancer—poetic and ethereal, breathtaking to watch. She learns her husband's life insurance policy has been nullified. Ever is desperate for this scholarship. Ever is artistic, and her ambition plays out in the chapters (parallels).
Lindsay has issues with her marriage, while Josie is a woman who is accustomed to getting what she wants and uses men.
Beatrice and Savvy are very competitive, which was apparent even before Etienne. Etienne has his agenda and hopes to repair his reputation via Lotte's film, but Lotte has other plans.
Dark and searing, who will win out in the end?
Enthralling! A standing ovation. At its center is a mystery —think: “Big Little Lies” meets “Black Swan.”
I have been a huge fan of the author for many years and have read every book. Her writing is insightful, lyrical, and evocative, and I am in awe of her talent. She is one of my top 20 favorite authors.
If you have followed her as long as I have, you know she is a proud ballet mom. Sometimes, readers do not consider writers' moms, too—juggling responsibilities, especially the time and effort of being a ballet mom in this highly competitive world. In the end, ballet moms are like all other moms who want their children to find happiness. However, sometimes, we cannot control everything surrounding our children, as we see so masterfully portrayed in this authentic and eloquently written novel.
THE STILL POINT is an absorbing, captivating fictional version with lyrical prose and metaphors of fire, beauty, nature, and art.
We get an inside peek at the world of ballet and what happens when ambition becomes dark. From jealousy, obsession, cutthroat competition, deception, betrayals, secrets, sacrifice, and disappointments to hope, triumph, and the pursuit of dreams.
Both plot and character-driven, Greenwood masterfully explores the complexities of female friendship, the dark drive towards perfection in the name of artistic expression, and the double-edged sword of ambition, passion, rivalry, and the secrets that women hold.
Bonuses included — A Glossary of Ballet Terms used in The Still Point, Bea's Playlist, an Author's note, and A Reading Group Guide, perfect for book clubs and further discussions.
The novel is for fans of author Rachel Kapelke-Dale. I highly recommend all Tammy (or T. Greenwood) books. Each is a gem to treasure. If you enjoyed The Still Point, I highly recommend Such a Pretty Girl another mom/daughter story of art and ambition. Also check out my #AuthorElevatorSeries Q&A with the author.
Much gratitude to Kensington Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early review copy for honest feedback. #CoverCrush
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: Feb 20, 2024
Feb 2024 Must-Read Books
Feb Newsletter
With the author's firsthand knowledge (ballet mom), she masterfully takes us inside the world of ballet, the sacrifices, competition, dreams, desires, and ambitions —from dancers to moms —and, most importantly, a love letter to her daughter, mothers, and ballet. (a beautiful Author's Note)
"At the still point of the turning world, Neither flesh nor fleshless; Neither from nor towards; at the still point, there the dance is . . ." —T.S. Eliot
Set in a coastal Southern California town to New York, moms Ever (writer), Josie, and Lindsay have been friends since their daughters, Bea, Savvy, and Olive, began ballet lessons from rehearsals to competitions and everything in between.
However, ambition trumps friendship and a fight for a sought-after scholarship with a prestigious prize —GAME ON!
At the center of the unrest, testing the friendships of the girls and moms, is Etienne Bernay—a twenty-seven-year-old principal at Ballet de Paris. Not only will he direct this year's production of The Nutcracker, but an award-winning film crew will document this journey.
He would join the CLCB faculty for the fall semester and assist Vivienne with the Conservatory's production of The Nutcracker. He would select one dancer to send back to the Ballet de Paris Academie for the spring term on a scholarship he would sponsor.
The prize: One student who will receive a full scholarship to the Ballet de Paris Academie. For the girls, it is a chance of a lifetime.
THE STILL POINT follows three mothers and three daughters while the girls compete for a scholarship. Each character has their own issues. Told creatively in Acts and Scenes, from POVs: Bea, Ever, Josie, Lindsay.
Ever recently widowed is struggling financially, it may be the only way to keep Bea dancing. Bea is a truly gifted dancer—poetic and ethereal, breathtaking to watch. She learns her husband's life insurance policy has been nullified. Ever is desperate for this scholarship. Ever is artistic, and her ambition plays out in the chapters (parallels).
Lindsay has issues with her marriage, while Josie is a woman who is accustomed to getting what she wants and uses men.
Beatrice and Savvy are very competitive, which was apparent even before Etienne. Etienne has his agenda and hopes to repair his reputation via Lotte's film, but Lotte has other plans.
Dark and searing, who will win out in the end?
Enthralling! A standing ovation. At its center is a mystery —think: “Big Little Lies” meets “Black Swan.”
I have been a huge fan of the author for many years and have read every book. Her writing is insightful, lyrical, and evocative, and I am in awe of her talent. She is one of my top 20 favorite authors.
If you have followed her as long as I have, you know she is a proud ballet mom. Sometimes, readers do not consider writers' moms, too—juggling responsibilities, especially the time and effort of being a ballet mom in this highly competitive world. In the end, ballet moms are like all other moms who want their children to find happiness. However, sometimes, we cannot control everything surrounding our children, as we see so masterfully portrayed in this authentic and eloquently written novel.
THE STILL POINT is an absorbing, captivating fictional version with lyrical prose and metaphors of fire, beauty, nature, and art.
We get an inside peek at the world of ballet and what happens when ambition becomes dark. From jealousy, obsession, cutthroat competition, deception, betrayals, secrets, sacrifice, and disappointments to hope, triumph, and the pursuit of dreams.
Both plot and character-driven, Greenwood masterfully explores the complexities of female friendship, the dark drive towards perfection in the name of artistic expression, and the double-edged sword of ambition, passion, rivalry, and the secrets that women hold.
Bonuses included — A Glossary of Ballet Terms used in The Still Point, Bea's Playlist, an Author's note, and A Reading Group Guide, perfect for book clubs and further discussions.
The novel is for fans of author Rachel Kapelke-Dale. I highly recommend all Tammy (or T. Greenwood) books. Each is a gem to treasure. If you enjoyed The Still Point, I highly recommend Such a Pretty Girl another mom/daughter story of art and ambition. Also check out my #AuthorElevatorSeries Q&A with the author.
Much gratitude to Kensington Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early review copy for honest feedback. #CoverCrush
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: Feb 20, 2024
Feb 2024 Must-Read Books
Feb Newsletter
February 22, 2024
Whew—-what an intense roller coaster of emotions. Set in the world of ballet, Still Point is told from the point of view of three young ballet dancers and each of their mothers. This emotionally-charged story is powerful and intense, as these six characters work through ambitions, jealousy, grief, and competition—not just in ballet, but in every aspect of their lives. I was breathless and on the edge of my seat as their stories unfold, as the girls and their mothers move through lives, whether it was fulfilling their dreams or dealing with disappointment and heartbreak. The relationships between the girls and their mothers were authentic and genuine; the relationships between the girls themselves were incredibly complicated as the vacillated between being friends and being competitors. I’ve not lived the life of a ballet dancer or a ballet mom, but I felt like I was living that life as I pored over the pages of this story. I imagine that readers who have lived in that world will find it extremely relatable.
October 22, 2024
this was weird
October 5, 2023
Another compulsively readable, beautifully crafted novel by Tammy Greenwood. “The Still Point” highlights the competitive, back-biting world of developing ballet dancers-and their parents. Set against a backdrop of real-life love, loss, uncertainty and regret, this book will take your heart on a breathless ride. Highly recommend.
August 14, 2023
A compelling novel about competitive ballet, where talented girls backed by fierce stage Moms fight for the prize of a Paris scholarship. Recommended!
February 22, 2024
A book about a ballet school and all the crazy ballet moms?!?!?
Oh, yes please! Read it in two days; couldn’t put it down!
Oh, yes please! Read it in two days; couldn’t put it down!
February 20, 2024
A cast of three ballet students are competing for a prestigious prize. Bea, Olive and Savey plus others in the school.
What I really liked about the book, was not only the girls but their mothers too. In the beginning the book puts the mothers with their daughters, so the reader, could keep track of this duo.
It wasn't just about the dancers,... the whole family was involved.
The prize their were vying for, was to study in Paris with a renown teacher . The girl that won the prize was not one of the three dancers featured in the story.
I want to thank Kensington, Penguin Random House for sending me this book.
What I really liked about the book, was not only the girls but their mothers too. In the beginning the book puts the mothers with their daughters, so the reader, could keep track of this duo.
It wasn't just about the dancers,... the whole family was involved.
The prize their were vying for, was to study in Paris with a renown teacher . The girl that won the prize was not one of the three dancers featured in the story.
I want to thank Kensington, Penguin Random House for sending me this book.
February 13, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ I’m not totally sure why this book worked so well for me, aside from the fact that I grew up obsessed with ballet and spent the ages of 3-15 in a dance studio.
The blurb promises “Dance Moms meets Little Fires Everywhere” and I have to respectfully disagree. Sure, there are dance moms in the literal sense but the drama and chaos of the Lifetime TV series is thankfully missing from this book. While I can agree that the writing style is mildly reminiscent of Celeste Ng, it honestly reminded me a lot more of Liane Moriatry.
THE STILL POINT is a very character-driven novel that explores the complexities of mother daughter relationships in a high-pressure environment like the competitive ballet world. I just loved these flawed women. I’m not always a massive fan of character-driven stories, especially when I was expecting Drama with a capital D (again, that Dance Moms comparison isn’t doing this book any favors), but this just worked so well for me. When I wasn’t reading, I was thinking about these mothers and their daughters.
To be quite honest, not a lot happens in this book. The drama is pretty mellow until the end, and even then, I was never truly shocked or scandalized... and that's okay! The conflicts were quieter, but also relatable and realistic. One mother is suffering from profound grief after the loss of her husband and troubling finances; one mother is dealing with a distant daughter and questioning her marriage; and one mother should be worried about a lot of things.
THE STILL POINT found me in a unique place. I don’t have children yet but I’m probably closer to the age of the mothers in the book and found them relatable and honest. At the same time, the drama between the teenage daughters brought me right back to my own childhood. I can so vividly remember feeling excluded from a friend group and wanting to grow up faster than necessary, and I definitely experienced every one of the teenage emotions Greenwood so flawlessly describes.
In the end, I’ll personally read (almost) any fictional story set in the ballet world and after quite a few duds I’m really happy to report that THE STILL POINT is officially my favorite book in this very niche little genre.
Thanks to the publisher for allowing me to be an early reader! All opinions are my own.
🥳PUB DAY: FEB 20
The blurb promises “Dance Moms meets Little Fires Everywhere” and I have to respectfully disagree. Sure, there are dance moms in the literal sense but the drama and chaos of the Lifetime TV series is thankfully missing from this book. While I can agree that the writing style is mildly reminiscent of Celeste Ng, it honestly reminded me a lot more of Liane Moriatry.
THE STILL POINT is a very character-driven novel that explores the complexities of mother daughter relationships in a high-pressure environment like the competitive ballet world. I just loved these flawed women. I’m not always a massive fan of character-driven stories, especially when I was expecting Drama with a capital D (again, that Dance Moms comparison isn’t doing this book any favors), but this just worked so well for me. When I wasn’t reading, I was thinking about these mothers and their daughters.
To be quite honest, not a lot happens in this book. The drama is pretty mellow until the end, and even then, I was never truly shocked or scandalized... and that's okay! The conflicts were quieter, but also relatable and realistic. One mother is suffering from profound grief after the loss of her husband and troubling finances; one mother is dealing with a distant daughter and questioning her marriage; and one mother should be worried about a lot of things.
THE STILL POINT found me in a unique place. I don’t have children yet but I’m probably closer to the age of the mothers in the book and found them relatable and honest. At the same time, the drama between the teenage daughters brought me right back to my own childhood. I can so vividly remember feeling excluded from a friend group and wanting to grow up faster than necessary, and I definitely experienced every one of the teenage emotions Greenwood so flawlessly describes.
In the end, I’ll personally read (almost) any fictional story set in the ballet world and after quite a few duds I’m really happy to report that THE STILL POINT is officially my favorite book in this very niche little genre.
Thanks to the publisher for allowing me to be an early reader! All opinions are my own.
🥳PUB DAY: FEB 20
May 23, 2024
This combined ballet and drama drama drama, and I was there for it!
February 1, 2024
A compelling, thrilling read about dance moms and their daughters' fight for a prestigious ballet opportunity. So much like Little Fires Everywhere in the best way! I got lost in this and didn't want it to end!
March 6, 2024
3.5 The book follows teenagers and their mothers during their final year at an elite ballet school in California. A famous French dancer is brought in to teach and also to award one scholarship to a ballet program in Paris. Competition ensues. But mainly, it's sort of just a melodrama with the three sets of mothers and daughters as they navigate through some sticky life situations. There was definitely some insight into the world of ballet, but I guess I expected more of the drama to center around it. Still, it was an enjoyable read for me.
March 30, 2024
T. Greenwood writes a story of a ballet studio for teens; part forever friendships, part scathing revenge, part parental care, part parental manipulation. Throw in ballet injuries, wildfires, and a production of The Nutcracker, and you -- like me -- are flying through these pages.
When a major ballet instructor from France arrives with a scholarship for just one lucky dancer, the stress and tension quickly rise. Greenwood picks apart themes of loss, hope, family, home, aging, dreams of the future for the dancers, and mourning for the future of the mothers left alone as their children begin their adult lives.
Ever the talented storyteller, Greenwood takes you on a ride through the world of ballet -- both the ugly and the beautiful -- behind the costumes. Bravo!
When a major ballet instructor from France arrives with a scholarship for just one lucky dancer, the stress and tension quickly rise. Greenwood picks apart themes of loss, hope, family, home, aging, dreams of the future for the dancers, and mourning for the future of the mothers left alone as their children begin their adult lives.
Ever the talented storyteller, Greenwood takes you on a ride through the world of ballet -- both the ugly and the beautiful -- behind the costumes. Bravo!
May 18, 2024
This is a 3.5 rounded up. I really enjoyed most of this book! It was filled with drama and I love that we had multiple character povs. It was very dance moms esque so it lived up to that hype and I was happy about it. I’m pretty disappointed with the happy ending. It was predictable and didn’t match the drama of the rest of the book. granted some of the ending was surprising but for the most part I wish something crazy would’ve happened which is why I ended up on 3.5
November 22, 2023
The Still Point was a thrilling domestic drama set against the complex, and sometimes ruthless, backdrop of competitive ballet. I was not ever a dancer myself, but I have always been enthralled by the complete devotion that the art asks of its performers. This book did a compelling job of showing the beauty, elegance, teamwork and art of ballet, but also the cut-throat competitiveness that selectively removes those who are not ready to step into stardom.
The book follows the lives of three dancers and three mothers as they navigate the final year of dance at their exclusive dance studio. The beauty of the novel came from the tangible realness of the characters. They struggled, they flourished, they made good choices as well as exceptionally bad ones. All the while, there was this entirely relatable quality that made me feel as though I couldn’t possibly read fast enough!
I thought this book also did a good job in drawing in the drama from such a competitive environment (think Dance Moms) and using it to propel the book. The pressure chamber of competition really illuminated the duality of regular people and our ability to choose the right things, but also to choose the path of least resistance and act in very self-serving ways. This can be true in any case, but it was riveting to read it in this context.
Truthfully, I am still reeling from the ending and thought it gave major Little Fires Everywhere vibes. I LOVE that we ended in some grey space. No one is ever perfect, but this ending was perfect for this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington publishing house for access to this eARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
The book follows the lives of three dancers and three mothers as they navigate the final year of dance at their exclusive dance studio. The beauty of the novel came from the tangible realness of the characters. They struggled, they flourished, they made good choices as well as exceptionally bad ones. All the while, there was this entirely relatable quality that made me feel as though I couldn’t possibly read fast enough!
I thought this book also did a good job in drawing in the drama from such a competitive environment (think Dance Moms) and using it to propel the book. The pressure chamber of competition really illuminated the duality of regular people and our ability to choose the right things, but also to choose the path of least resistance and act in very self-serving ways. This can be true in any case, but it was riveting to read it in this context.
Truthfully, I am still reeling from the ending and thought it gave major Little Fires Everywhere vibes. I LOVE that we ended in some grey space. No one is ever perfect, but this ending was perfect for this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington publishing house for access to this eARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
February 6, 2025
I miss it 🩰
January 22, 2024
Read this book and learn about the ugly backstage reality that occurs to ensure a beautiful ballet production. We become intimately familiar with the Level 6 students as they prepare for Nutcracker performance with a new instructor who shakes things up ALOT! Of course not only students are involved. Parents and sibling lives are also dedicated to the dancer in their lives. Support at home is virtually required so the dancer can rise above her classmates. Also, enthusiasm is infectious! A few notes: I was a dance mom for 12 years at the local ballet studio, my dancer never made it that high but she enjoyed dancing so I supported her. Also, I was fortunate to be in the audience for performances at the New York Met and at the Paris Ballet. They are vastly different but so worth going. Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
January 24, 2024
As a ballet lover and adult ballet student, I read pretty much *every* ballet book that comes out. I'm so pleased to say that I can absolutely add The Still Point to my list of favorite ballet novels. (I'll actually post the list below for other ballet book fans.)
To get one question out of the way before I start, I know fellow dancers will be wondering why the title has the word "point" and not "pointe." Let me explain. The title of the novel is taken from a T.S. Eliot poem:
“At the still point of the turning world. Neither flesh nor fleshless; Neither from nor towards; at the still point, there the dance is…”
I thought it was such a clever title choice to imply pointe shoes and reference the poem! And the rest of the novel is just as well done. Tammy Greenwood explains in her author’s note that she’s a dance mom, and her in-depth understanding of the world of pre-professional ballet resonates throughout the whole book. It's a domestic drama with a hint of thriller, and as you’d expect for a ballet novel, there’s a lot of competition. Primarily between three young dancers (and their mothers) for the final prize, a full scholarship to the (fictional) Ballet de Paris Academie. It’s a story of dance moms and dance daughters, but Greenwood does a great job avoiding the usual catty stereotypes and drawing us into a world with rich and realistic characters, and an ending that’s not too wrapped-up and not too open-ended—it’s just right.
The press blurb describes the book as “Dance Moms meets Little Fires Everywhere” and while I’ve never watched Dance Moms, I do think fans of Celeste Ng’s Little Fires Everywhere and Megan Abbott’s You Will Know Me (competitive gymnastics, but similar themes) will especially like this one.
Thanks so much to Kensington and NetGalley for providing me with a review copy!
Release date: February 20, 2023 🗓️
My favorite ballet novels in no particular order:
Dances by Nicole Cuffy
They’re Going to Love You by Meg Howrey
The Crane’s Dance by Meg Howrey
Astonish Me by Maggie Shipstead
The Ballerinas by Rachel Kapelke-Dale
The Turnout by Megan Abbott
To get one question out of the way before I start, I know fellow dancers will be wondering why the title has the word "point" and not "pointe." Let me explain. The title of the novel is taken from a T.S. Eliot poem:
“At the still point of the turning world. Neither flesh nor fleshless; Neither from nor towards; at the still point, there the dance is…”
I thought it was such a clever title choice to imply pointe shoes and reference the poem! And the rest of the novel is just as well done. Tammy Greenwood explains in her author’s note that she’s a dance mom, and her in-depth understanding of the world of pre-professional ballet resonates throughout the whole book. It's a domestic drama with a hint of thriller, and as you’d expect for a ballet novel, there’s a lot of competition. Primarily between three young dancers (and their mothers) for the final prize, a full scholarship to the (fictional) Ballet de Paris Academie. It’s a story of dance moms and dance daughters, but Greenwood does a great job avoiding the usual catty stereotypes and drawing us into a world with rich and realistic characters, and an ending that’s not too wrapped-up and not too open-ended—it’s just right.
The press blurb describes the book as “Dance Moms meets Little Fires Everywhere” and while I’ve never watched Dance Moms, I do think fans of Celeste Ng’s Little Fires Everywhere and Megan Abbott’s You Will Know Me (competitive gymnastics, but similar themes) will especially like this one.
Thanks so much to Kensington and NetGalley for providing me with a review copy!
Release date: February 20, 2023 🗓️
My favorite ballet novels in no particular order:
Dances by Nicole Cuffy
They’re Going to Love You by Meg Howrey
The Crane’s Dance by Meg Howrey
Astonish Me by Maggie Shipstead
The Ballerinas by Rachel Kapelke-Dale
The Turnout by Megan Abbott
February 6, 2024
The premise of The Still Point sounded perfectly up my alley–who doesn’t love drama set in a competitive field that intermingles the resentments between teenagers and their moms?–but unfortunately this book ended up not being my cup of tea.
We follow a few different perspectives here of one of the teenage dancers, Bea, and of the dance moms, seeing the different relationships that happen in the dance studio and then outside of it. I don’t really understand why we had so many perspectives from the moms and found everyone except Ever and Josie pretty bland. I feel like getting another perspective from one of the teens like Olive or Savvy would’ve given us a better sense of tension.
As it is, the book is a lot about moms navigating their familial lives and it’s very grounded but not that interesting. That’s why I think Josie, who is that very ambitious mom that thinks her daughter deserves everything, was the most interesting. Seeing into her perspective and how she rationalizes the things her daughters does was great! Out of everyone, we see what she’s willing to sacrifice most for her daughter and for ballet and why.
I really wish The Still Point delivered more in its promise of backstabbing too! Everything is pretty tame, even the revelations at the end, and none of the secrets being revealed are that big or feel like, “Yes, this would absolutely mess up a dynamic and cause these characters to take extreme actions.” And because most of the moms and even the teens are pretty civil to each other even when they dislike one another, it feels like they’re all pretty reasonable. Which, I think, kind of makes a lot of characters and the overall story bland since there’s no tension.
Overall, The Still Point is a book I can see people that want very grounded characters enjoying. It’s not going to give you the drama and the high-stakes of ballet in the way that Black Swan or Dances will, and it’s more about the moms and how they live their lives than what the dancers are actually sacrificing.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
We follow a few different perspectives here of one of the teenage dancers, Bea, and of the dance moms, seeing the different relationships that happen in the dance studio and then outside of it. I don’t really understand why we had so many perspectives from the moms and found everyone except Ever and Josie pretty bland. I feel like getting another perspective from one of the teens like Olive or Savvy would’ve given us a better sense of tension.
As it is, the book is a lot about moms navigating their familial lives and it’s very grounded but not that interesting. That’s why I think Josie, who is that very ambitious mom that thinks her daughter deserves everything, was the most interesting. Seeing into her perspective and how she rationalizes the things her daughters does was great! Out of everyone, we see what she’s willing to sacrifice most for her daughter and for ballet and why.
I really wish The Still Point delivered more in its promise of backstabbing too! Everything is pretty tame, even the revelations at the end, and none of the secrets being revealed are that big or feel like, “Yes, this would absolutely mess up a dynamic and cause these characters to take extreme actions.” And because most of the moms and even the teens are pretty civil to each other even when they dislike one another, it feels like they’re all pretty reasonable. Which, I think, kind of makes a lot of characters and the overall story bland since there’s no tension.
Overall, The Still Point is a book I can see people that want very grounded characters enjoying. It’s not going to give you the drama and the high-stakes of ballet in the way that Black Swan or Dances will, and it’s more about the moms and how they live their lives than what the dancers are actually sacrificing.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
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