TL;DR
"Hope Was Here" follows sixteen-year-old Hope and her aunt Addie as they move to small-town Wisconsin, where they take over a diner and become involved in a mayoral campaign that sparks hope and community spirit.
What is Hope Was Here about
"Hope Was Here" is a heartwarming coming-of-age novel by Joan Bauer that revolves around the life of sixteen-year-old Hope Yancey. After moving with her aunt Addie from Brooklyn to a small town in Wisconsin, Hope finds herself navigating new challenges at the Welcome Stairways Diner, which they have taken over. The story explores not only the dynamics of small-town life but also the significance of hope and community as the diner’s previous owner, G.T., decides to run for mayor against a corrupt candidate. Through G.T.'s campaign, Hope discovers her own capacity for hope and the impact of collective resilience during difficult times. The novel addresses themes of parental separation, belonging, and the healing power of community, making it a poignant read for teens and adults alike.
Hope Was Here 6 Key Takeaways
Hope and her aunt move to Wisconsin.
Hope Yancey, a sixteen-year-old waitress, relocates with her aunt Addie to take over a diner in a small Wisconsin town, which sets the stage for her self-discovery.
G.T. decides to run for mayor.
The former owner of the diner, G.T., embarks on a political campaign against a corrupt candidate, igniting hope and enthusiasm within the community.
Hope gets involved in G.T.'s campaign.
As Hope adapts to her new environment, she becomes an active participant in G.T.'s campaign, learning about the importance of civic engagement and community empowerment.
Themes of family and belonging are explored.
The relationship between Hope and her aunt Addie underscores the themes of family, belonging, and the search for identity amidst a backdrop of personal history.
Community rallies together for positive change.
The narrative highlights how a community can come together to support one another in times of need, emphasizing the collective spirit of hope.
Hope's personal growth and resilience.
Throughout the story, Hope learns to confront her past, embrace change, and cultivate hope, showcasing her growth from a reserved teenager to a confident young woman.
Top Hope Was Here Quotes
- "Everyone can use a little hope to help get through the tough times."
- "Hope is like a seed; it needs care and nurturing to grow."
- "In small towns, every voice matters and every choice counts."
Who should read Hope Was Here?
"Hope Was Here" is ideal for young adult readers, particularly those who appreciate heartfelt stories about personal growth, community, and resilience. The book provides inspiration for anyone grappling with their identity and seeking hope in challenging circumstances.
Hope Was Here Best Reviews
- "A beautifully written story that captures the essence of hope and resilience in the face of adversity." – School Library Journal
- "Bauer's writing is both poignant and uplifting, making this a must-read for young adults." – BookPage
- "A charming tale that showcases the power of community and the importance of believing in oneself." – Publishers Weekly
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Hope Was Here FAQs
What age group is "Hope Was Here" suitable for?
"Hope Was Here" is primarily aimed at young adult readers, particularly those aged 12 and up, due to its themes of coming-of-age and personal discovery.
Is "Hope Was Here" based on a true story?
While "Hope Was Here" is a work of fiction, its themes of hope, community, and resilience resonate with real-life experiences of individuals navigating challenges in their lives.