Hope Was Here
on Goodreads (21,130)
What’s inside...
Hope Was Here (00) by Bauer, Joan [Hardcover (2000)]; Readers fell in love with teenage waitress Hope Yancey when Joan Bauer’s Newbery Honor–winning novel was published ten years ago. Now, with a terrific new jacket and note from the author, Hope’s story will inspire a new group of teen readers. When Hope and her aunt move to small-town Wisconsin to take over the local diner, Hope's not sure what to expect. But what they find is that the owner, G.T., isn't quite ready to give up yet—in fact, he's decided to run for mayor against a corrupt candidate. And as Hope starts to make her place at the diner, she also finds herself caught up in G.T.'s campaign—particularly his visions for the future. After all, as G.T. points out, everyone can use a little hope to help get through the tough times... even Hope herself. Filled with heart, charm, and good old-fashioned fun, this is Joan Bauer at her best.
Age
11-12
Length
186 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Hope Yancey
Braverman
Addie
G.t. Stoop
Eli Millstone
Discussion points
How did Hope's attitude towards challenges change throughout the story and what can we learn from her resilience?
In what ways do the diner and its customers contribute to the sense of community in the book? Have you ever experienced a similar sense of community?
Why is it important to stand up for what is right, even when it's difficult, as demonstrated by various characters in the story?
How do the themes of love and loss weave through the narrative, and how do the characters cope with their feelings?
What role does hope play in the characters' lives and how can we apply this to our own challenges?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use the book as a gateway to discuss personal resilience and optimism, relating it to personal experiences or challenges your child might be facing.
Encourage your child to explore the concept of community by connecting the story to real-life examples in your neighborhood or school.
Highlight the importance of ethics and integrity shown in the book, and discuss real-life scenarios where they might apply these lessons.
Discuss the emotional journeys of the characters and relate them to emotions your child may have felt, to better understand and manage their feelings.
Emphasize the power of hope and positivity, and how these outlooks can be transformative in difficult times.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Hope, continually adapts to new challenges and changes, displaying resilience throughout the narrative.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace change and overcome obstacles in their own lives, developing a positive attitude towards unexpected situations.
Example Lesson: Importance of community support
Explanation: Hope finds solace and support in the small community she moves to, highlighting the importance of community bonds.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to participate in community activities and understand the value of supporting and being supported by others.
Example Lesson: Ethical responsibility
Explanation: Characters in the book face moral dilemmas and strive to do what is right, despite personal costs.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of ethical behavior and integrity, encouraging them to make morally sound decisions in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Empowerment through self-discovery
Explanation: Hope discovers her own strengths and potential through the challenges she faces, which empowers her character.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to explore their own capabilities and to believe in their potential, fostering self-confidence and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Value of hard work
Explanation: The book showcases characters who achieve their goals through dedication and hard work, emphasizing these traits.
Real-World Application: Motivates children to persevere in their endeavors, be it academic or personal, to achieve their goals.