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The Hope of Elephants
An inspiring coming-of-age novel in verse about weathering the uncertainty that comes with family illness perfect for fans of Starfish and Red, White, and Whole.
Cass and her parents haven’t let her dad’s cancer stop them from having a good life—full of love and poems and one annual World Series game. Now that Dad’s cancer is back, Cass overhears the doctor say that she has a 50% chance of inheriting her dad's genetic mutation, Li-Fraumeni syndrome. There’s a genetic test Cass can take that will tell her for sure. There’s still so much she wants to do—play baseball, study at the zoo, travel the world with her best friend, Jayla. Would it be better not to know?
When it turns out Dad’s cancer is worse this time, Cass is determined to keep up their World Series tradition while navigating all the change and uncertainty that lies ahead.
Poignant and powerful, Cass’s story brings the pains and anxiety linked with illness to the surface, and reminds us that sometimes hope is worth holding on to.
Cass and her parents haven’t let her dad’s cancer stop them from having a good life—full of love and poems and one annual World Series game. Now that Dad’s cancer is back, Cass overhears the doctor say that she has a 50% chance of inheriting her dad's genetic mutation, Li-Fraumeni syndrome. There’s a genetic test Cass can take that will tell her for sure. There’s still so much she wants to do—play baseball, study at the zoo, travel the world with her best friend, Jayla. Would it be better not to know?
When it turns out Dad’s cancer is worse this time, Cass is determined to keep up their World Series tradition while navigating all the change and uncertainty that lies ahead.
Poignant and powerful, Cass’s story brings the pains and anxiety linked with illness to the surface, and reminds us that sometimes hope is worth holding on to.
480 pages, Hardcover
First published September 6, 2022
9 people are currently reading
358 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
May 4, 2025
5⭐
Genre ~ middle grade
Setting ~ Utah
Publication date ~ September 6, 2022
Publisher ~ Charlesbridge
Est Page Count ~ 481
POV ~ single 1st written in verse
Featuring ~ based on true events with facts, Dad with cancer, lovely friendships
Cass's (12) father has cancer. It's nothing particularly new to the family since he gets it again and again every other year. But now this year is different. They learn that he carries a gene that Cass has a 50% chance of having, Li-Fraumeni syndrome. Cass will need to decide if she would like to be tested or not, so she makes a pros and cons list. Is it better to know so plans can be made or do you just live life to the fullest and whatever will be will be?
We have to remember that Cass is just a kid, too. She's a preteen and battles with her mom, as mothers and daughters do at this tricky age. She is home-schooled, so there is less risk of bringing germs into their home. She does play on a baseball team and a big part of the story is her wanting to go to the World Series. This could come across as selfish, but this is something the family has done for 7 years straight. This year it might not be possible. She struggles with losing this tradition and tries her hardest to make it happen.
While I don't carry this particular gene or have cancer, at least I don't think so, I do know what it's like to carry a gene that could potentially be passed on to your child. There are so many emotions that go along with this and the emotions are high in this book.
Don't be intimidated by the page count. Since it's written in verse each page is not filled to the brim, so it goes along rather quickly. This is my first time reading a book this way.
Overall, this was a heartbreaking, beautifully inspiring book. The friendships and support system she has are quite lovely.
“And life is real. It really is. And it’s beautiful.”
The author's note is worth the read stating this story was true to her family. Her brother in law sadly passed away from Li-Fraumeni syndrome and the gene was unfortunately passed on to his daughter. Did you know that elephants have 20 copies of the cancer fighting p53 gene?
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ X
Genre ~ middle grade
Setting ~ Utah
Publication date ~ September 6, 2022
Publisher ~ Charlesbridge
Est Page Count ~ 481
POV ~ single 1st written in verse
Featuring ~ based on true events with facts, Dad with cancer, lovely friendships
Cass's (12) father has cancer. It's nothing particularly new to the family since he gets it again and again every other year. But now this year is different. They learn that he carries a gene that Cass has a 50% chance of having, Li-Fraumeni syndrome. Cass will need to decide if she would like to be tested or not, so she makes a pros and cons list. Is it better to know so plans can be made or do you just live life to the fullest and whatever will be will be?
We have to remember that Cass is just a kid, too. She's a preteen and battles with her mom, as mothers and daughters do at this tricky age. She is home-schooled, so there is less risk of bringing germs into their home. She does play on a baseball team and a big part of the story is her wanting to go to the World Series. This could come across as selfish, but this is something the family has done for 7 years straight. This year it might not be possible. She struggles with losing this tradition and tries her hardest to make it happen.
While I don't carry this particular gene or have cancer, at least I don't think so, I do know what it's like to carry a gene that could potentially be passed on to your child. There are so many emotions that go along with this and the emotions are high in this book.
Don't be intimidated by the page count. Since it's written in verse each page is not filled to the brim, so it goes along rather quickly. This is my first time reading a book this way.
Overall, this was a heartbreaking, beautifully inspiring book. The friendships and support system she has are quite lovely.
“And life is real. It really is. And it’s beautiful.”
The author's note is worth the read stating this story was true to her family. Her brother in law sadly passed away from Li-Fraumeni syndrome and the gene was unfortunately passed on to his daughter. Did you know that elephants have 20 copies of the cancer fighting p53 gene?
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ X
October 16, 2022
This book. Oh my god.... Will I ever recover from this moment of pain and sadness?
But also this story gave me hope to be someone better, live each day better and be conscious of the moments that would stay forever.
It's a book written in verse about a Cass whose father's cancer comes back worse than before and has fifty percent chance of inheriting the particular dreaded genes that would cause the same illness.
It's the story of a family's struggle throughout this painful journey from a young child's point of view. It's so well written with all the feels and emotions.
The book is a reminder that nothing lasts forever, try to live life with gratitude and care as much as possible, let your family know they are loved and be more mindful about our days.
Such a beautiful read. I am obsessed with the author's writing! It's so good.
Thank you, Charlesbridge, for the advance reading copy.
But also this story gave me hope to be someone better, live each day better and be conscious of the moments that would stay forever.
It's a book written in verse about a Cass whose father's cancer comes back worse than before and has fifty percent chance of inheriting the particular dreaded genes that would cause the same illness.
It's the story of a family's struggle throughout this painful journey from a young child's point of view. It's so well written with all the feels and emotions.
The book is a reminder that nothing lasts forever, try to live life with gratitude and care as much as possible, let your family know they are loved and be more mindful about our days.
Such a beautiful read. I am obsessed with the author's writing! It's so good.
Thank you, Charlesbridge, for the advance reading copy.
May 4, 2022
This book was recommended on Twitter by librarians in #MGBookChat so was on my radar. The unique cover caught my attention. This book is totally worth the hype! I hadn't read the summary before reading so was caught off guard emotionally at all this book entailed.
Cass is a character you will fall deeply for and root for from the beginning. Notably, the book and its verse is beautifully and expertly crafted from the first page to the last page. The two sides of Cass as she grapples with a big decision is one that readers will connect to.
When I learned the reason for the title of this book and saw why elephants were important to Cass, my heart fluttered and I may have gasped.
I especially appreciated the author's note as well as it shone a real light on the genetic syndrome that the author's family is unfortunately afflicted with.
The verse is stunning. It varies from playful to heavy and Amanda Rawson Hill tells a story through her verse formatting as well. One could dissect each page and do a masterclass on verse from this book. The plot threads come together beautifully leaving the reader inspired and hopeful throughout which is no easy feat.
There is so much I want to say about this book, but in a nutshell, it is STUNNING. I can't wait to read more from this talented author!
Cass is a character you will fall deeply for and root for from the beginning. Notably, the book and its verse is beautifully and expertly crafted from the first page to the last page. The two sides of Cass as she grapples with a big decision is one that readers will connect to.
When I learned the reason for the title of this book and saw why elephants were important to Cass, my heart fluttered and I may have gasped.
I especially appreciated the author's note as well as it shone a real light on the genetic syndrome that the author's family is unfortunately afflicted with.
The verse is stunning. It varies from playful to heavy and Amanda Rawson Hill tells a story through her verse formatting as well. One could dissect each page and do a masterclass on verse from this book. The plot threads come together beautifully leaving the reader inspired and hopeful throughout which is no easy feat.
There is so much I want to say about this book, but in a nutshell, it is STUNNING. I can't wait to read more from this talented author!
January 18, 2023
This MG novel in verse is absolutely stunning.
And i say that from a place of not usually caring for novels in verse.
It does deal with very hard issues. My mom died of cancer recently, and her doctors said it was possibly genetic. They recommended all her kids get tested. So i thought it was interesting that I picked up this book, now, about a young girl watching her father die and wondering if she should get tested. It is heartbreaking, but also hopeful. Beautifully written!
And i say that from a place of not usually caring for novels in verse.
It does deal with very hard issues. My mom died of cancer recently, and her doctors said it was possibly genetic. They recommended all her kids get tested. So i thought it was interesting that I picked up this book, now, about a young girl watching her father die and wondering if she should get tested. It is heartbreaking, but also hopeful. Beautifully written!
January 10, 2023
Great novel in verse, made me cry
January 11, 2023
Amazing book. I really liked all of it, even the sad parts.
❤️❤️❤️
❤️❤️❤️
August 8, 2024
Beautiful. Inspiring. Heartbreaking.
Just read this book.
Just read this book.
March 28, 2023
Pre-teen Cass and her family have been in a battle against her dad's cancer since she was 5 years old. Cancer has affected every aspect of Cass's life. Now that it's back again, and Cass has learned that she may have the same gene as her dad, their life spirals once more. Should Cass get the test to determine if she does indeed have the same gene? Will her dad battle through this time? And what is the connection to Hazel, the elephant in the zoo that is being studied to advance cancer research?
Beautiful writing and an inspiring story of family, friendship and so much more, including baseball. I wish every adolescent child who had a parent battling cancer could read this. This is one of the best of the year for me.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and Charlesbridge Publishing for an advance digital copy of the book.
Beautiful writing and an inspiring story of family, friendship and so much more, including baseball. I wish every adolescent child who had a parent battling cancer could read this. This is one of the best of the year for me.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and Charlesbridge Publishing for an advance digital copy of the book.
April 19, 2022
Thank you to the author for sending me an eARC of her upcoming book to read.
Wow. I’ve been stingy with my five stars ratings this year, but this upcoming novel in verse definitely earned one of them from me. I don’t like to post my reviews too far in advance (the book’s release date is September 6th), but I want to make sure it’s on your radar, and you have time to preorder it.
Cass’s dad has Li-Fraumeni syndrome, a genetic mutation that has resulted in recurring cancer playing a regular part in their lives. They have balanced the struggles with many happy experiences like trips to the World Series and homeschooling on their own schedule. But Cass accidentally overhears that she has a 50% chance of having the genetic mutation, and it’s her choice if she wants the test to see if she has it. Cass’s mom wants to protect her, while Cass pushes to have her voice and choices matter. She’s determined to find a way to get her dad to one more World Series while trying to decide how much knowledge about the future she wants to have.
What I loved most about this book was the writing style. Amanda has a gift for writing in verse, as her language and poetic devices often made me stop and pause. The “two sides” theme ran throughout the book, and the text format emphasized that. I also loved that the author shared her inspiration for the book on social media, which led me to ask her to read it and feel connected to the story. I often think authors don’t realize the impact of their personal experiences on their readers, but it definitely affected how I read this book.
Although the book appears long (it’s 480 pages), there is a lot of white space on each page, and it’s very manageable for middle-grade readers.
I would highly recommend this book for Gr. 5-7.
Wow. I’ve been stingy with my five stars ratings this year, but this upcoming novel in verse definitely earned one of them from me. I don’t like to post my reviews too far in advance (the book’s release date is September 6th), but I want to make sure it’s on your radar, and you have time to preorder it.
Cass’s dad has Li-Fraumeni syndrome, a genetic mutation that has resulted in recurring cancer playing a regular part in their lives. They have balanced the struggles with many happy experiences like trips to the World Series and homeschooling on their own schedule. But Cass accidentally overhears that she has a 50% chance of having the genetic mutation, and it’s her choice if she wants the test to see if she has it. Cass’s mom wants to protect her, while Cass pushes to have her voice and choices matter. She’s determined to find a way to get her dad to one more World Series while trying to decide how much knowledge about the future she wants to have.
What I loved most about this book was the writing style. Amanda has a gift for writing in verse, as her language and poetic devices often made me stop and pause. The “two sides” theme ran throughout the book, and the text format emphasized that. I also loved that the author shared her inspiration for the book on social media, which led me to ask her to read it and feel connected to the story. I often think authors don’t realize the impact of their personal experiences on their readers, but it definitely affected how I read this book.
Although the book appears long (it’s 480 pages), there is a lot of white space on each page, and it’s very manageable for middle-grade readers.
I would highly recommend this book for Gr. 5-7.
September 25, 2022
Beautifully written in verse, I was shocked to learn how many pages the finished book is because I couldn’t put it down and read it one sitting. Writing this story in verse was the right decision - a child dealing with her father’s cancer (over and over again) can become a heavy topic, but the poetry helps to lighten the load, lets the reader fill in the spaces with their own responses.
As a cancer survivor myself, and one who carries a genetic indicator, I loved the way Amanda allowed Cass to wrestle with the decision to be tested herself for the gene that continues to threaten her dad’s life. I loved her support group friends and the way they saw and understood each other.
Cass’s determination to get her father to the World Series was relatable even for readers who don’t have a baseball connection. Holding onto traditions and rituals becomes an anchor for Cass, just as her faith is an anchor that provides hope. Recommended for kids who like tearjerkers, but note - this is not a story about death, but about making difficult choices, grieving the losses that come with cancer and illness even when it doesn’t end in death, and finding hope in unexpected places.
As a cancer survivor myself, and one who carries a genetic indicator, I loved the way Amanda allowed Cass to wrestle with the decision to be tested herself for the gene that continues to threaten her dad’s life. I loved her support group friends and the way they saw and understood each other.
Cass’s determination to get her father to the World Series was relatable even for readers who don’t have a baseball connection. Holding onto traditions and rituals becomes an anchor for Cass, just as her faith is an anchor that provides hope. Recommended for kids who like tearjerkers, but note - this is not a story about death, but about making difficult choices, grieving the losses that come with cancer and illness even when it doesn’t end in death, and finding hope in unexpected places.
May 22, 2024
I am a huge fan of books in verse and this one did not disappoint.
I first learned about Li-Fraumeni syndrome from an episode of Grey's Anatomy but the episode focused more on the diagnosis versus the syndrome itself. I enjoyed reading a story about this syndrome and what it feels like to both being going through it and the fear of having it or not.
Synopsis: In this book we meet Cass who loves baseball and has been to every world series game with her father. Her father has had cancer on and off for years but this year the family learns it is because of a gene mutation. And Cass has a 50% chance of inheriting the gene too. Cass battles with pros and cons of if she should be tested to see if she has the gene. Cass also begins a journey to make sure that he and her dad get to see one last world series game.
There is so much emotion in this story. The book and the verse aspect is crafted beautifully. The reason behind the title and the cover art is even better. So many beautiful pieces are woven together into such a stunning tale. Some pieces are heavy while others are playful but the plot thread come together so beautifully and leave the reader inspired and hopeful. Books in verse usually read so fast that it is often hard for them to leave a super lasting impression or bring tears but this one did both for me. It also made me want to learn more about this syndrome as well as the genetic components and stories included in this book. Even if verse is not your favorite, highly recommend!! It is definitely worth it.
I first learned about Li-Fraumeni syndrome from an episode of Grey's Anatomy but the episode focused more on the diagnosis versus the syndrome itself. I enjoyed reading a story about this syndrome and what it feels like to both being going through it and the fear of having it or not.
Synopsis: In this book we meet Cass who loves baseball and has been to every world series game with her father. Her father has had cancer on and off for years but this year the family learns it is because of a gene mutation. And Cass has a 50% chance of inheriting the gene too. Cass battles with pros and cons of if she should be tested to see if she has the gene. Cass also begins a journey to make sure that he and her dad get to see one last world series game.
There is so much emotion in this story. The book and the verse aspect is crafted beautifully. The reason behind the title and the cover art is even better. So many beautiful pieces are woven together into such a stunning tale. Some pieces are heavy while others are playful but the plot thread come together so beautifully and leave the reader inspired and hopeful. Books in verse usually read so fast that it is often hard for them to leave a super lasting impression or bring tears but this one did both for me. It also made me want to learn more about this syndrome as well as the genetic components and stories included in this book. Even if verse is not your favorite, highly recommend!! It is definitely worth it.
June 14, 2022
Thank you to Amanda Rawson Hill, Charlesbridge Publishing and NetGalley for the eARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Wow. Wow. Wow. I mean, what an incredibly powerful story. The emotion, very raw emotion, was so real. I truly felt like I was experiencing cancer through a 10-12 year olds eyes.
The writing was phenomenal. The verses went from heavy and gut-wrenching to light and playful. Hill seriously took you on that emotional rollercoaster that is a preteen.
I was hooked from the very beginning and the authors note, I have no words. Thank you, Amanda Rawson Hill for so beautifully sharing your family’s story with us. I know this will impact people for years to come on another level.
I’m honestly not a huge fan of sad stories, but this one, I will be suggesting this one to my students, friends and family as soon as it comes out in September.
Wow. Wow. Wow. I mean, what an incredibly powerful story. The emotion, very raw emotion, was so real. I truly felt like I was experiencing cancer through a 10-12 year olds eyes.
The writing was phenomenal. The verses went from heavy and gut-wrenching to light and playful. Hill seriously took you on that emotional rollercoaster that is a preteen.
I was hooked from the very beginning and the authors note, I have no words. Thank you, Amanda Rawson Hill for so beautifully sharing your family’s story with us. I know this will impact people for years to come on another level.
I’m honestly not a huge fan of sad stories, but this one, I will be suggesting this one to my students, friends and family as soon as it comes out in September.
October 6, 2022
Gorgeous book with apt metaphors and word play. The Hope of Elephants includes both humor and grief, hope and acceptance in such a beautiful way.
March 27, 2023
I had to read this for school, but I somehow fell in love with it.
December 30, 2022
This novel in verse is incredible. 12-year-old Cass deals with her father's recurring cancer while trying to decide if she wants to be tested to find out if she shares his genetic condition. Poignant story tugs at your heartstrings, but also shows a character finding hope in a difficult situation. Loved the characters and the friends Cass has in her life. Beautifully constructed novel.
December 31, 2022
Beautiful story written in verse. Heart breaking and poignant. I felt there was a bit that could have been cut, but overall, a great middle grade read.
Read
January 20, 2023A lovely, moving read.
December 24, 2022
I’m sorry I didn’t read this earlier so that I could have brought it to the attention of more people. This is one of my top 2 middle grade books I read in all of 2022!! So outstanding. The art of writing a novel in verse and to capture SO many emotions and actions and still tell a complete story is truly incredible. The characters are fully developed. The main storyline is bolstered by the smaller ones. The settings add to this story. The plot,though the condition is specific, is relatable to many children. Be prepared because, unless your veins are filled with ice, there will be tears.
August 18, 2022
It's hard to figure out life when your dad has cancer. Cass and her mom try to find ways to cope using routines or support groups and friendships, but fear hangs over their lives constantly. Baseball is especially important, but they may not be able to attend another World Series when her dad's treatments only seem to make him more sick. Then Cass learns she may have inherited the gene mutation that would make her vulnerable to cancer. Should she be tested to know for sure? How can a middle grader make a tough decision like that?
Written in verse, this story reveals the daily pain a family struggles with when one is terminally ill. At times it tears them apart, but then they learn how to come back together again in love and forgiveness. I do not think I have previously read a book in verse and these themes seem perfect for the style. There are many powerful and painful scenes that are beautifully described and would be helpful for a middle grader wrestling with really hard things.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Written in verse, this story reveals the daily pain a family struggles with when one is terminally ill. At times it tears them apart, but then they learn how to come back together again in love and forgiveness. I do not think I have previously read a book in verse and these themes seem perfect for the style. There are many powerful and painful scenes that are beautifully described and would be helpful for a middle grader wrestling with really hard things.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
June 7, 2022
My thanks to NetGalley and Charlesbridge for the advanced reader copy.
Author Amanda Rawson Hill quickly introduces cancer itself as a major character in this verse novel, an unwelcome but frequent visitor to 12 year old Cass' family. This time feels different, scarier and more deadly. When Cass overhears doctors talking with her parents, she discovers her dad lacks a cancer-fighting gene - and the condition is hereditary, meaning she may or may not be susceptible to recurring bouts with cancer herself. She can be tested to find out, but should she take the test?
Cass spends much of the story grappling with this impossible decision while trying to get her dad to one last World Series. Author Hill takes the reader on Cass' decision-making process through often gut-wrenching but always gorgeous verse. The Hope of Elephants is an honest look at how cancer can both disrupt and fortify a family.
Author Amanda Rawson Hill quickly introduces cancer itself as a major character in this verse novel, an unwelcome but frequent visitor to 12 year old Cass' family. This time feels different, scarier and more deadly. When Cass overhears doctors talking with her parents, she discovers her dad lacks a cancer-fighting gene - and the condition is hereditary, meaning she may or may not be susceptible to recurring bouts with cancer herself. She can be tested to find out, but should she take the test?
Cass spends much of the story grappling with this impossible decision while trying to get her dad to one last World Series. Author Hill takes the reader on Cass' decision-making process through often gut-wrenching but always gorgeous verse. The Hope of Elephants is an honest look at how cancer can both disrupt and fortify a family.
September 12, 2022
The thunder
and lightning
started early this morning.
A new book;
a perfect
companion during the storm.
The Hope of Elephants is both heartbreaking AND heartwarming all at once. This #mglit novel in verse is a story of family, bravery, & certainly of hope.
- - - - -
“Like a book I want to never end
but has to,
because all books do.
When I finally get to the last page
and still want
more,
more,
more,
I don’t get mad that the book
isn’t longer.
I thank it for a wonderful story.”
EPILOGUE:
"There's a hill you have to climb
before you can bike across the Golden Gate Bridge.
Two miles of pedaling
against the wind.
We got to the end of the ride-
tired,
out of breath,
legs burning.
I wanted to throw myself onto the grass.
But Dad wouldn't let me.
He spun me around,
showed me how far we had come.
'Was it worth it?' he asked.
'Worth it,' I replied.
He hugged me.
'The view at the end
always is.' "
and lightning
started early this morning.
A new book;
a perfect
companion during the storm.
The Hope of Elephants is both heartbreaking AND heartwarming all at once. This #mglit novel in verse is a story of family, bravery, & certainly of hope.
- - - - -
“Like a book I want to never end
but has to,
because all books do.
When I finally get to the last page
and still want
more,
more,
more,
I don’t get mad that the book
isn’t longer.
I thank it for a wonderful story.”
EPILOGUE:
"There's a hill you have to climb
before you can bike across the Golden Gate Bridge.
Two miles of pedaling
against the wind.
We got to the end of the ride-
tired,
out of breath,
legs burning.
I wanted to throw myself onto the grass.
But Dad wouldn't let me.
He spun me around,
showed me how far we had come.
'Was it worth it?' he asked.
'Worth it,' I replied.
He hugged me.
'The view at the end
always is.' "
November 5, 2022
Written in verse. Sad/heavy, which I don't normally love, but this was very lovely and poignant. Definitely appropriate for middle grade readers. I liked quotes and references throughout the book (schrodinger's cat, poetry). The relationship between twins - one of whom is neurological diverse - was very sweet.
I heard about this author through another friend (also an author) who I met at church. I wasn't sure this author was Mormon, but after reading this book she I would say she definitely is.
I heard about this author through another friend (also an author) who I met at church. I wasn't sure this author was Mormon, but after reading this book she I would say she definitely is.
October 7, 2022
Both heartwrenching and heartwarming at the same time. This is a lovely, deeply moving novel in free verse (NOTE: It's NOT blank verse, as the CIP data mistakenly says. Blank verse is generally iambic pentameter). Cass feels like a real person to me, and her family's battle with Li-Fraumeni Syndrome is touching. I learned so much from this novel!
December 11, 2022
⚾⭐🐘The Hope of Elephants🐘⭐⚾
Cass' father has Li-Fraumeni syndrome, which means he will develop cancer before forty and struggle with it for the rest of his life. Distrust is sown into Cass' relationship with her mother, then her mother hides a secret that could forever change her life: Cass has a 50/50 chance of having Li-Fraumeni syndrome too. Her father will not be able to attend the World Series this year, and Cass desperately struggles with her possible fate as well as her father's undeniable one. Cass' father is dying. Elephants contain twenty p53 genes, which is why they have such a high resistance to cancer. Cass meets an elephant named Hazel, spends her days with her best friend Jayla, secretly plays baseball, and talks to Elena, Jazz, and Blaine. However, she struggles with the decision that will play an important part in her life: taking a test to determine whether she has Li-Fraumeni.
"Hope Circle
The road in front of the hospital
its called Hope Circle. It sounds nice when you first see the sign
Hope.
It makes your insides feel like toasted
marshmallows.
But then you read
the second word.
Circle.
A circle never ends.
You always come back
to where you started.
So I don't see how they can call this circle
Hope
when we keep coming back to the very place
we never want to see
again."
The Hope of Elephants viscerally writes about the experience of dealing with a parent figure battling cancer, while trying to find a middle ground in two opposite decisions that could change life. Amanda Rawson Hill captures what I love about verse, the short, poetic, and few words that manage to trigger intense emotions. Instead of paragraphs and long sentences, just a couple of words can sum up the idea of the page.
50/50
50/50
works for
a lot of things.
Coins.
Babies.
Odd numbers.
But I am none of those.
I'm just a girl
with a dad who is unlucky.
It's a fifty-fifty chance
that I'm unlucky too
And suddenly,
I'm split
in two.
Positive. Negative
With the gene. Without the gene.
Cancer. Health.
Invalid. Traveler.
Two futures
Two paths
Two of
me."
Cass is an endearing character who is struggling with the duality of her life's situation. Cass' father has Li-Fraumeni syndrome, and I enjoyed how the author didn't make this seem like "just a plot-point". There was a lot of emotion in this book. It was lengthy, and not that quick-paced that really allowed the reader to understand Cass as a character and her relationship with her family and peers. Baseball, books, and poetry is something that plays a big part in Cass and her fathers life. The tension and complications in Cass' relationship with her mother were dissected and explored really well.
Trapped
There are two sides of me.
Cancer. Health.
Death. Life.
Stuck at home. Sick. Traveling the world. Free.
And I'm trapped
in the box,
and I claw
at the sides.
I don't know
which I am.
I don't get
to decide.
I won't know till
I open
the box.
Am I stuck
or will I fly?
Am I dead
or am I alive?"
Cass is an endearing character who is struggling with the duality of her life's situation. Cass' father has Li-Fraumeni syndrome, and I enjoyed how the author didn't make this seem like "just a plot-point". There was a lot of emotion in this book. It was lengthy, and not that quick-paced. That really allowed the reader to understand Cass as a character and her relationship with her family and peers. Baseball, books, and poetry are something that plays a big part in Cass and her father's life. The tension and complications in Cass' relationship with her mother were dissected and explored really well.
Traitor
"Dad's body
keeps turning on him,
betraying him,
trying to kill him.
How can I love him so much,
but hate every cell in his body?"
There were profound themes in the story that are extremely important for everyone. This book managed to capture the perfect balance between emotionally breaking the reader and healing them all the same. Overall, a memorable and important read!
✅PLOT
✅CHARACTERS
Cass' father has Li-Fraumeni syndrome, which means he will develop cancer before forty and struggle with it for the rest of his life. Distrust is sown into Cass' relationship with her mother, then her mother hides a secret that could forever change her life: Cass has a 50/50 chance of having Li-Fraumeni syndrome too. Her father will not be able to attend the World Series this year, and Cass desperately struggles with her possible fate as well as her father's undeniable one. Cass' father is dying. Elephants contain twenty p53 genes, which is why they have such a high resistance to cancer. Cass meets an elephant named Hazel, spends her days with her best friend Jayla, secretly plays baseball, and talks to Elena, Jazz, and Blaine. However, she struggles with the decision that will play an important part in her life: taking a test to determine whether she has Li-Fraumeni.
"Hope Circle
The road in front of the hospital
its called Hope Circle. It sounds nice when you first see the sign
Hope.
It makes your insides feel like toasted
marshmallows.
But then you read
the second word.
Circle.
A circle never ends.
You always come back
to where you started.
So I don't see how they can call this circle
Hope
when we keep coming back to the very place
we never want to see
again."
The Hope of Elephants viscerally writes about the experience of dealing with a parent figure battling cancer, while trying to find a middle ground in two opposite decisions that could change life. Amanda Rawson Hill captures what I love about verse, the short, poetic, and few words that manage to trigger intense emotions. Instead of paragraphs and long sentences, just a couple of words can sum up the idea of the page.
50/50
50/50
works for
a lot of things.
Coins.
Babies.
Odd numbers.
But I am none of those.
I'm just a girl
with a dad who is unlucky.
It's a fifty-fifty chance
that I'm unlucky too
And suddenly,
I'm split
in two.
Positive. Negative
With the gene. Without the gene.
Cancer. Health.
Invalid. Traveler.
Two futures
Two paths
Two of
me."
Cass is an endearing character who is struggling with the duality of her life's situation. Cass' father has Li-Fraumeni syndrome, and I enjoyed how the author didn't make this seem like "just a plot-point". There was a lot of emotion in this book. It was lengthy, and not that quick-paced that really allowed the reader to understand Cass as a character and her relationship with her family and peers. Baseball, books, and poetry is something that plays a big part in Cass and her fathers life. The tension and complications in Cass' relationship with her mother were dissected and explored really well.
Trapped
There are two sides of me.
Cancer. Health.
Death. Life.
Stuck at home. Sick. Traveling the world. Free.
And I'm trapped
in the box,
and I claw
at the sides.
I don't know
which I am.
I don't get
to decide.
I won't know till
I open
the box.
Am I stuck
or will I fly?
Am I dead
or am I alive?"
Cass is an endearing character who is struggling with the duality of her life's situation. Cass' father has Li-Fraumeni syndrome, and I enjoyed how the author didn't make this seem like "just a plot-point". There was a lot of emotion in this book. It was lengthy, and not that quick-paced. That really allowed the reader to understand Cass as a character and her relationship with her family and peers. Baseball, books, and poetry are something that plays a big part in Cass and her father's life. The tension and complications in Cass' relationship with her mother were dissected and explored really well.
Traitor
"Dad's body
keeps turning on him,
betraying him,
trying to kill him.
How can I love him so much,
but hate every cell in his body?"
There were profound themes in the story that are extremely important for everyone. This book managed to capture the perfect balance between emotionally breaking the reader and healing them all the same. Overall, a memorable and important read!
✅PLOT
✅CHARACTERS
October 25, 2022
Beautiful and sad and exquisitely done
January 26, 2023
This book was so good!! I really liked it! I couldn’t put this book down!!!!!
December 1, 2022
I read The Hope of Elephants by Amanda Rawson Hill for the poetry unit of my reading course. I read this book in its traditional format. I appreciated being able to read the short poems and understand what Cass and her family experienced in the novel. I chose to read this book because it was a 2023 notable verse novel selected by the NCTE.
Cass has to sit down and have "the conversation" with her mom and dad multiple times in this novel. She already knows what the conversation is going to be, that her father has cancer. Her family realizes that the cancer is worse this time and that the condition that caused the cancer is genetic. Cass learns the importance of having faith and hope through difficult times and how to never take anything for granted.
I highly recommend this novel because of the descriptive word choice the author used and the similes and metaphors that were used to convey emotions. According to the poetry chapter of Children's Books in Children's Hands, good poetry should have sounds, images, and forms. One poem that stuck out to me in the novel was, "Hazel's eyes are golden-orange, like a sunset in a forest fire. Eyelashes long and crimped. Her stare crackles, burns, sparks, as if she's saying "I always had the answers. I was just waiting for you to ask," (122). I liked how the author was descriptive and the reader was able to visualize Hazel's eyes. This specific poem was also written in a different form than the rest. The words weren't centered but were in small stanzas down the page.
I recommend this book to students in upper elementary school or middle school. This would be a great addition to the classroom library or may be a good book to use for a read - aloud. Teachers can talk about free verse poems, images, and figures of speech using this book.
Happy reading!
Cass has to sit down and have "the conversation" with her mom and dad multiple times in this novel. She already knows what the conversation is going to be, that her father has cancer. Her family realizes that the cancer is worse this time and that the condition that caused the cancer is genetic. Cass learns the importance of having faith and hope through difficult times and how to never take anything for granted.
I highly recommend this novel because of the descriptive word choice the author used and the similes and metaphors that were used to convey emotions. According to the poetry chapter of Children's Books in Children's Hands, good poetry should have sounds, images, and forms. One poem that stuck out to me in the novel was, "Hazel's eyes are golden-orange, like a sunset in a forest fire. Eyelashes long and crimped. Her stare crackles, burns, sparks, as if she's saying "I always had the answers. I was just waiting for you to ask," (122). I liked how the author was descriptive and the reader was able to visualize Hazel's eyes. This specific poem was also written in a different form than the rest. The words weren't centered but were in small stanzas down the page.
I recommend this book to students in upper elementary school or middle school. This would be a great addition to the classroom library or may be a good book to use for a read - aloud. Teachers can talk about free verse poems, images, and figures of speech using this book.
Happy reading!
May 29, 2022
If you had a chance to know whether or not you were predisposed to a fatal disease, would you choose to find out?
The Hope of Elephants by Amanda Rawson Hill is a middle grade novel in verse that takes on some tough topics.
Cass is a twelve year old girl with a dark cloud over her home. Her father has gone through multiple bouts of cancer. This time, when he is diagnosed again, he learns that he is so susceptible due to a faulty gene. What's worse is that there is a 50% chance that Cass also has that faulty gene.
As her father takes a turn for the worse, she is left to decide if it would be better or worse to know. I recently lost a close friend to cancer and it did make this book hit harder than I expected, especially since she also had a genetic disposition for it.
I'm the type that I would absolutely want to know, but watching the young protagonist struggle through her decisions and find hope in the darkness around her was heartbreaking.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and @netgalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
The Hope of Elephants by Amanda Rawson Hill is a middle grade novel in verse that takes on some tough topics.
Cass is a twelve year old girl with a dark cloud over her home. Her father has gone through multiple bouts of cancer. This time, when he is diagnosed again, he learns that he is so susceptible due to a faulty gene. What's worse is that there is a 50% chance that Cass also has that faulty gene.
As her father takes a turn for the worse, she is left to decide if it would be better or worse to know. I recently lost a close friend to cancer and it did make this book hit harder than I expected, especially since she also had a genetic disposition for it.
I'm the type that I would absolutely want to know, but watching the young protagonist struggle through her decisions and find hope in the darkness around her was heartbreaking.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and @netgalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
March 30, 2022
The Hope of Elephants is a beautiful middle grade novel in verse. It's an important story the explores the effects of terminal illness on a family and how children must learn to cope and adapt and try to carve out some happiness for themselves. I was somewhat surprised by the prominent role that religion plays in the novel and typically middle grade novels tend to shy away from this, but I think this is something that many readers will be able to relate to. Cass must navigate some difficult decisions like to play on the team and risk bringing home germs or not, whether to to give up on the World Series or not, and most importantly whether to have a gene test or not. The repetitive nature of Cass's list of pros and cons makes it clear how much this last decision weighs on her because the stakes are so high. I found myself rooting for Cass and unable to put this novel down.
August 6, 2022
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early copy in return for an honest review.
I am admittedly for stingy with 5-star reviews, this is just my 12th one in 2022 (and I've read more than 100 books), but this was a well deserved 5-star read. I really enjoy verse novels, and particularly enjoyed that aspect of this book as the author made full use of the style and played with the space well on the page.
Notes: Due to the themes and content in the book, I would recommend it for upper MG readers (5th-7th grade). This book reminded me of Ten Thousand Tries (but with baseball and cancer instead of soccer and ALS).
I am admittedly for stingy with 5-star reviews, this is just my 12th one in 2022 (and I've read more than 100 books), but this was a well deserved 5-star read. I really enjoy verse novels, and particularly enjoyed that aspect of this book as the author made full use of the style and played with the space well on the page.
Notes: Due to the themes and content in the book, I would recommend it for upper MG readers (5th-7th grade). This book reminded me of Ten Thousand Tries (but with baseball and cancer instead of soccer and ALS).
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