Hope in the Valley

By Mitali Perkins,

Book cover of Hope in the Valley

Book description

Hope in the Valley, from National Book Award Nominee Mitali Perkins, is a middle-grade novel exploring grief, friendship, family, and growing up in a community facing a housing crisis.

Twelve-year-old Indian-American Pandita Paul doesn't like change. She's not ready to start middle school and leave the comforts of childhood behind.…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

2 authors picked Hope in the Valley as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

This story made me both sad and hopeful, which is why it’s made this list. I found Pandita’s struggle to come to peace with the death of her mother really moving, especially when she turns her grief into advocating for a cause that she truly believes in.

Perkins’ writing is exquisite, and the themes of preserving and respecting the past while adjusting to and addressing the needs of the future are very relevant today. Seeing Pandita slowly find her voice is also oh-so inspiring. 

This book shows the strength and determination of a twelve-year-old dealing with friendship, family, grief, and change. It speaks to the power of believing in yourself and finding your voice.

I loved the character of Pandita and the strength and determination she shows in doing the right thing for herself, but more importantly, for the community at large. Mitali Perkins is a beautiful writer and this book is filled with passion, empathy, and heart.

Want books like Hope in the Valley?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like Hope in the Valley.

Browse books like Hope in the Valley

Book cover of Alone
Book cover of Beyond the Bright Sea
Book cover of The First Rule of Punk

Share your top 3 reads of 2024!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,188

readers submitted
so far, will you?

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in Indian Americans, empathy, and grief?

Indian Americans 30 books
Empathy 163 books
Grief 90 books