The life story of “one of the most brilliant American ballerinas of the 20th century” (New York Times).

A fascinating self-portrait of the fairy-tale life of Maria Tallchief, an Osage woman who understood that a committed talent could transform the world around her and became America's first major prima ballerina. This memoir chronicles her extraordinary life with choreographer husband George Balanchine and how they transformed the New York City Ballet through their collaborations.

“At the heart of Maria Tallchief's memoir is the story of her married and professional life with George Balanchine. . . [It is] an apt expression of her nature—forceful, assertive, tough on herself as well as on others, suffering few people gladly.” —New York Times

“Maria Tallchief and American ballet came of age in the same moment. . . . Her story will always be the story of ballet conquering America. It was and is an American romance.” —The New Yorker

“Tastefully yet candidly told. . . . The book abounds with droll tales and with detailed descriptions of her roles in Balanchine's The Firebird, The Nutcracker, Orpheus, and Sylvia, among others.” —Kirkus Reviews