Things Hoped For
#2 of 3 in Things Series
on Goodreads (4,195)
What’s inside...
Seventeen-year-old Gwen is preparing to audition for New York City’s top music schools when her grandfather mysteriously disappears, leaving Gwen only a phone message telling her not to worry. But there’s nothing more stressful than practicing for her auditions, not knowing where her grandfather is, and being forced to lie about his whereabouts when her insistent great-uncle demands an audience with him. Then Gwen meets Robert, also in town for music auditions, and the two pair up to brave the city without supervision. As auditions approach and her great-uncle becomes more aggressive, Gwen and Robert make a startling discovery. Suddenly Gwen’s hopes are turned upside down, and she and Robert are united in ways neither of them could have foretold.
Discussion points
How do the challenges faced by the characters relate to the hopes and dreams they have?
What role does music play in the life of the main character and how does it influence their decisions?
Can you think of a time when you had to make a tough choice that could change your future?
How do the relationships between characters evolve throughout the story?
What does the title 'Things Hoped For' mean to you after reading the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their own hopes and dreams, relating them to those of the characters in the book.
Discuss the influence of passion and perseverance, as depicted in the book, on their personal lives or future aspirations.
Identify moments in the book where characters show resilience and compare them to real-life situations that require courage and determination.
Connect the theme of uncertainty in the future with current or past experiences, making it relevant to your child’s life.
Ask your child about their favorite part of the book and why it stands out to them, fostering a deeper connection with the story’s messages.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Persistence in pursuing goals
Explanation: The protagonist, Gwen, relentlessly pursues her goal of becoming a violinist despite facing numerous challenges.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of hard work and perseverance, understanding that achieving goals often requires overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: The power of hope and positivity
Explanation: Throughout the story, Gwen remains hopeful and positive about her future, which guides her through difficult times.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to maintain a positive outlook even in tough situations, instilling resilience.
Example Lesson: Dealing with change and uncertainty
Explanation: Gwen navigates through unexpected changes and the uncertainties of her grandfather’s disappearance and her auditions.
Real-World Application: Children learn to adapt to changes and manage uncertainty, important skills for personal growth and dealing with life's unpredictabilities.
Example Lesson: Importance of support networks
Explanation: The story highlights the support Gwen receives from friends and family, aiding her journey.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to appreciate and seek support from their own networks, understanding the role of community in personal success.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Gwen learns to understand and empathize with the struggles of those around her, deepening her personal relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to foster empathy towards others, which is crucial for building strong, supportive relationships.