3 out of 4 stars
Share This Review
“One day at a time.” Have you caught yourself saying this? Was it during a difficult period in your life? This simple phrase can mean so much, especially when you see a loved one slowly leaving this world…
In the non-fiction text, Saving Hope by Devoted Grandfather (Jim), the reader follows a grandfather’s account of his young, beautiful, blue-eyed granddaughter, Hope. The unforgettable date of September 11, 2001 holds a different significance for PopPop, the Devoted Grandfather, compared those in the United States and their loved ones involved. His sweet nearly three-year-old granddaughter, Hope, was diagnosed with Stage 4 Neuroblastoma cancer on this day. This cancer forms around the nerve cells and is more commonly seen in infants and young children.
Through this trying time, this devoted grandfather regularly emailed friends and family updates on Hope’s progress. He shared the ups and downs. The successes and the disappointments. Along the way, someone suggested to PopPop that he wrote a book within these emails, and here we are today.
This was an interesting read; it felt both personal and impersonal at the same time. Let’s start with the personal. Through the emails, it was clear that PopPop and his wife were very much involved in Hope’s life, giving support to Hope’s parents as much as they could. Also, it was clear to see that PopPop understood Hope's medical happenings. Using simple language, he communicated updates well to friends, families, and future readers.
It felt somewhat impersonal due to the structure of the emails. Most were literal accounts of what the day consisted of – procedures, health issues, and where was Hope (either at home or at the hospital). Though these were important details to this young girl’s progress, I couldn’t seem to grasp much emotion; the tone was dry and repetitive. The author did reference his tears at times, but it still felt so distant. Perhaps, if the author wanted to keep the integrity of the emails, he could have added some thoughts and/or feelings in between them.
There were several errors throughout the read. For instance, “I she makes the count...” (loc. 385), “...doing quit well...” (loc. 939), and several others. PopPop did mention he was not a writer, but this book would benefit from another round of editing.
This eye-opener of how cancer doesn’t skip over anyone, even a three-year-old little girl, readers who have had experience with cancer and/or have known someone with cancer most likely can relate to this novel. Though it was an eye-opener, due to its impersonal tone and amount of errors, I give Saving Hope a 3 out of 4 stars.
******
Saving Hope
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Like hsimone's review? Post a comment saying so!