Dancing Through Life: A Memoir

Winner of the 2024 Uta Behrens Nonfiction Award

Dancing Through Life tells the compelling story of the resilience, faith, and self-determination of Tristan Peigné. As intimate as the Argentine Tango, as spicy as the Salsa, and with the elegance of the Viennese Waltz, this book glides the reader as a partner across the floor of a life well-lived.

Born to a French-Caucasian mother and African American father with Cherokee roots, Tristan faced numerous challenges—including dyslexia, racism, homelessness, illness, and injury. Yet, without relying on athletics, drugs, or exploitation of others, he excelled at the predominantly white art of ballroom dancing. He later went on to found Dancing with the Veterans of America.

By sharing the challenges of growing up mixed-race in the seventies, Tristan demonstrates to those who feel marginalized or ostracized that accepting and loving themselves will win the approval of others.

Regardless of your interest in dance, this book invites you on a journey of triumph over tragedy. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to find strength and joy in their lives.