The Story and Science of Hope
Written by Andrea Curtis; illustrated by Ana Suárez. Published by Groundwood Books.
Hope is an action.
Hope has a history.
Hope must be nurtured.
Hope matters.
Discover how new science and ancient knowledge about hope can help us face an uncertain world.
All over the world, kids are struggling with grief, anxiety and fear about the climate crisis, war, and a future that seems out of their control. Sometimes it’s hard to have hope – but hope may be the one thing that can change the world. Modern researchers – called Hope Theorists – are helping us understand that we can use hope to improve our own lives and those of our neighbours, friends and even the planet.
The Story and Science of Hope is an illustrated nonfiction book for middle-grade readers that weaves together ancient history with surprising new scientific research showing hope is more than a feeling — it’s essential for our well-being. People who are high in hope are happier and healthier, they live longer, do better in school and have stronger friendships. Learn the history of hope, how it can be measured, learned and practiced — even where you can find hope in your brain (spoiler: it’s the bilateral medial orbitofrontal cortex, above your eyes and a few centimetres inside your brain)!
Backmatter includes real-world examples of hopeful environmental activists and a list of ways that kids can cultivate hope, plus a glossary of unfamiliar terms, sources and further reading.
For ages 9-12
Available October 2025
Reviews
A lucid mini-course in an essential life-enhancing emotion.
“A multifaceted and encouraging exploration of “the thing with feathers”…. In a world where hope sometimes seems to be at a premium, this book offers inspiration and direction for developing a much-needed skill.”—Kirkus Reviews
Honest, authentic, and yes, hopeful, this will be a reassuring read for anxious kids.
“Curtis emphasizes hope as a call to action, particularly in the climate crisis, and provides specific examples of people translating their hopes into collective action, giving the book substance.”—Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
A gift centered around hope.
“A balm for anxious youth and a necessary reminder for adults…. A good choice for middle school nonfiction shelves.”— School Library Journal
The Story and Science of Hope is on the Telling Tales Festival Summer Reading List! Check it out here.
More reviews →
Buy this book
The Story and Science of Hope is available wherever good books are sold. Visit your local indie bookstore or order at these online retailers. It’s also available as an ebook.
About Ana Suárez
ANA SUÁREZ is an illustrator and educator based in Madrid. She studied fine arts and illustration, focusing her work on projects with social and cultural impact. She also leads workshops and activities that blend art with parenting, fostering creativity in children, building support networks for mothers and promoting a sensitive approach to child development. She has illustrated six books, including El cielo imaginado, written by Pablo A. Mastro, and Severn Speaks Out in the Speak Out series.
Learning resources
The Story and Science of Hope includes a full-page spread highlighting inspiring people around the world who’ve put their hope into action to improve the environment and fight climate change. There’s also a page with practical ideas about how we can all build hope and make the world a better place.
Watch for FREE curriculum-based resources, coming soon!
Did you know?
There are lots of ways to build hope. Try these or read the book and come up with your own!
- Listen to the stories of hopeful people.
- Remind yourself of times you felt especially hopeful.
- Borrow hope from a friend.
- Spend time with hopeful people.
- Share your hope for others!
- Tell a story. Make art. Dance or kick a ball with a friend.
- Spend time in nature.
- Celebrate moments when you feel hopeful.
Watch
A new book trailer for THE STORY AND SCIENCE OF HOPE!
