Hopeless in Hope

Reach for this book when your teen is grappling with the complexities of family systems, the pain of separation, or the search for identity while navigating the foster care system. It is a vital resource for children experiencing family instability or for those wanting to understand the systemic challenges faced by Indigenous families today. Fourteen-year-old Eva is thrust into a group home when her grandmother is hospitalized, leaving her separated from her younger brother and mother who struggles with alcoholism. The story follows Eva as she uses her writing to process her grief and reconnect with her Cree heritage. It is a realistic, deeply moving portrayal of resilience that balances heavy themes with the restorative power of cultural connection and storytelling. Ideal for ages 12 and up, this novel provides a safe space to discuss intergenerational trauma, the flaws in social services, and the enduring strength of the sibling bond. It offers representation for youth in care and builds empathy for the diverse experiences of First Nations people in Canada.