Derek Hough Books

"Sometimes I've taken home the trophy, sometimes I've stumbled or tripped over my own feet. But every move I've made has shaped me into the person I am today." Season after season, millions of fans tune into Dancing with the Stars to watch Derek Hough, the consummate competitor and all-time champion. He has a unique talent for bringing out the best in his partners, whether they are Olympic gold medalists or celebrated stars. Derek not only teaches them the intricacies of dance but also inspires them to see beyond their limits and realize their true potential. For the first time, he shares his journey from a bullied child to an accomplished performer and coach who overcomes challenges. In this narrative, he reflects on how his experiences have instilled a positive outlook, creative drive, and the courage to face fears. From his early training in London at age twelve to intense global competitions and behind-the-scenes stories from Dancing with the Stars, Derek writes with honesty about his extraordinary path. By sharing his story, he encourages others to take charge of their goals, overcome obstacles, and achieve success, both on the dance floor and in life.

Derek Hough, the dashing Emmy Award-winning fan favorite, and only five-time champion of the hit ABC reality show Dancing With the Stars, tells the inspiring story of his life and career, and shares insider tips of how he transforms his celebrity dance partners into confident, charismatic champions. For eleven seasons, millions of people have tuned in to Dancing with the Stars to watch Derek Hough, the talented, consummate competitor whose skill and commitment have made him the show’s all-time champion. Whether he’s dancing with an Olympic gold medalist, an internationally renowned recording star, or a celebrated actress, Derek instills in each of his celebrity partners a deep passion, respect for hard work, and an irrepressible joie de vie spirit. Now, for the first time ever, Derek opens up about his life and the lessons he’s learned on and off the dance floor, revealing how he went from bullied boy to ballroom boss. He details how his experiences have taught him to embrace a positive outlook, and shares the insights he’s gained working with celebrity partners, along with never-before-told, behind-the-scenes stories from the show. Throughout, Derek spills the real secrets of learning to dance—connection, respect, and cooperative commitment—and demonstrates how he draws on the lessons of dance and competition to embrace and overcome the daily challenges we all face.