Tap Dancing for Daddy: One Girl's Journey from Suburbia to the Streets of NYC and Back. Paperback – November 20, 2025

Tap Dancing for Daddy is a gripping, brutally honest memoir from stand-up comic and writer Vanda Mikoloski that unflinchingly explores addiction, family dysfunction, and the courageous journey to healing. Set against the gritty, turbulent backdrop of 1960s Massachusetts and 1970s New York during the Son-of-Sam era, Vanda’s story is a darkly comic, compelling page-turner that blends raw survival with redemptive laughter.This powerful memoir is perfect for readers searching for:Addiction and recovery memoirs(Love addicts included, especially with domestic violence)Dysfunctional family storiesDarkly humorous coming-of-age booksInspirational women’s true storiesNew York city memoirs on trauma and transformationBooks on healing, self-acceptance, and personal growthPraised by industry voices:Martin Olson, author of Encyclopaedia of Hell, calls it “an astounding un-put-downable true story of an outrageous, beautiful woman caught in a hell of her own making.”Bill Maher, comedian and talk show host, lauds Vanda as “smart and funny,” with humor and intelligence that shine throughout.Amy Stiller, actor and writer, describes the book as “riveting, raw, tender, inspiring, hilarious… a story of survival, family dysfunction, and the human need to be loved.”Pulitzer Prize winner Tim Page highlights its honesty and compassion, “a brilliant, terrifying, and sometimes hilarious journey through a dangerous era.”Vanda Mikoloski’s journey from addiction to stand-up comedy, yoga teaching, and author of inspiring memoirs and essays will resonate with anyone seeking hope and authenticity in overcoming trauma.About the Author:Vanda Mikoloski is a stand-up comic, writer, yoga teacher, and former addict, featured on YouTube’s Soft White Underbelly. She writes at vanda.substack.com and is currently working on her next memoir and a film adaptation of Tap Dancing for Daddy. She lives in Philadelphia fostering rescue dogs and pursuing endless personal growth. Read more