Julia Stiles (Real-Life Reader Biography)

Many young actors and actresses get their start in show business because of whom they know. But Julia Stiles didn't know anyone. She got her first big break all by herself.

Born and raised in an area of New York City called SoHo, Julia loved to act out scenes from her favorite movies and TV shows. Her parents encouraged such creative expression. They sent her to dance lessons and acting classes. From the time she was twelve, she performed in off-Broadway productions.

Julia has since made a name for herself starring in controversial films. Several of her movies have been about interracial dating and some contain teen violence. Though she is still young, she has appeared in more than 15 films and has dreams of directing future movies. Here is the story of one of the up-and-coming young actresses in Hollywood.