Theo is a high school junior torn between becoming a pro ballerina or finding another job. She and all of her friends are entranced with drug use, and she spends her time at parties and navigating her relationship with pianist Hosea and her childhood friend Donovan.

At least Hosea feels the same way about piano as she feels about dance. Dancing frees Theo from boundaries and limitations. Theo would not even know what else to do with her life.

Ashland Hills is a small town, and Marisa is Theo's ballet teacher. Luckily, she is recommended for summer intensives. Marisa tells the lucky group that they are her best dancers. 

Dance is hard on Theo mentally and physically. She uses food in an attempt to modulate her emotions, and stresses in her life trigger anorexic behavior. Injuries, blisters and sore feet are the norm for her.

Pointe by Brandy Colbert, 2014

• Brandy Colbert's web site
• Books about ballet
• Books about child sexual abuse
• Books about eating disorders
• Books about substance abuse