
A parent would reach for this book when their child is grappling with the complicated reality of a parent in the justice system, especially when that child feels a mix of intense longing and social shame. This story follows young Hope as she embarks on a secret, determined quest to find her father after his release from prison, navigating the emotional landscape of second chances and family secrets. It explores themes of resilience, the pain of absence, and the enduring bond between a father and daughter despite past mistakes. Ideal for children ages 8 to 12, it provides a mirror for those in similar circumstances and a window of empathy for others, offering a realistic yet hopeful look at what it means to rebuild a family after a long separation.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a reviewThe book deals directly with parental incarceration and the socioeconomic struggles that often follow. The approach is realistic and secular, focusing on the emotional labor a child takes on when trying to 'fix' their family. The resolution is hopeful but grounded in reality, acknowledging that forgiveness is a process.
A middle-grade reader who feels 'different' because of their family structure, or a child who is experiencing the re-entry of a parent into their life and needs to process the conflicting feelings of joy and resentment.
Parents should be prepared to discuss why people go to prison in an age-appropriate way. Preview the scenes where Hope feels she must lie to her mother to see her father, as this may require a conversation about safety and trust. A parent might choose this after hearing their child ask 'When is Daddy coming home?' or seeing their child hide their family situation from friends due to embarrassment or fear of judgment.
Younger readers (8-9) will focus on the 'detective' aspect of Hope's journey. Older readers (11-12) will better grasp the nuance of the father's mistakes and the mother's desire to protect her daughter.
Unlike many books that focus only on the time during incarceration, this story highlights the 'after' (the transition and the complex reality of re-entry) which is often just as difficult for children to navigate.
The story follows Hope, a young girl whose father has been incarcerated. Upon his release, she realizes her family isn't immediately reuniting as she dreamed. Determined to bridge the gap, she uses her wits and clues to track him down, hoping to reconcile the man she remembers with the man who exists today.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.