Hope's Journey - A Book Review

Hope's Journey by Stephanie Worlton
Publisher:  Bonneville
Publication Date:  July 10th 2011
ISBN:  1599555069
Genre:  Contemporary

Book Summary:  Sydney is a straight-A student heading to college on a scholarship, and Alex is a quiet jock preparing to serve an LDS mission. But their dreams are shattered on the eve of their high school graduation when they find out that Sydney is pregnant. Separated, they must both trust in God as they search for the worth they once found in each other.

My thoughts:  Wow!  This book is what good contemporary fiction is all about.  It is a beautifully written, faith-based story of teen pregnancy.  It genuinely takes the reader through a journey of the emotions and hope that two teens face as they face this difficult time in their life.


The book is written with alternating views from both Sydney and Alex.  The reader is able to immerse themselves into the reality of the situation that has totally upended the plans of both teens.  Each one deals with the pregnancy and changes in their lives in  a totally different fashion - going on separate journeys so to speak.


I think what endeared me so much to the story and the characters is the fact that this story is based on real-life, personal experiences of the author.  I too was a teen mother, so I was readily able to connect with the story.  This is a very difficult situation to live through - so much judgement - often from individuals who do not know you or your situation.  The author gave a true depiction of what that feels like, as only someone who had lived the ordeal could do.


Every teenager, and their parent should read this book.  We are all of a belief that something like this could not happen to us.  I love how Sydney makes reference in the book that she was well informed and knew better, but just let her emotions take control - it was not lack of knowledge / education.  I think this happens more times than not.


There were times in the story that I really wanted to hate Alex, but he would turn around and make me like him.  For the most part, I was right with Sydney.  I love how the author went beyond the teens and their families and expanded the impact of the pregnancy on their LDS community.  I felt this gave a deeper meaning to the whole event - one that we can all relate to, as their were varying views.  The supporting characters in this story played a pivotal role in the novel.  Without them, we would not have received the full impact of the situation.


I am so glad that I had the chance to read this story.  I will be sharing it with my girls - if for no other reason as to hear someone else's thoughts on teenage pregnancy than their mother's.  Thank you, Stephanie Worlton.


Please be sure to click on the Book Tour Banner below to visit other blogs that are sharing Hope's Journey.


Read the first few chapters:  Hope's Journey
Stephanie's Blog:  Kreating Krazy

About the Author:  Author of Hope's Journey. Stephanie was born with a pen in her hand and a pencil behind her ear. Whether it's writing a novel, painting a mural, designing furniture, or building sometimes just for the sake of building, Stephanie's always got a project in the works. She lives in a quiet Utah suburb with one patient husband, two adorable dogs, three hours of sleep, and four amazing (and equally crazy) children.               Goodreads        Blog         Facebook