Review of Hope by Andrew Ntzouras

Andrew Ntzouras confided in those who attended his book talk, explaining that he had trouble reading when he was young. This encouraged him in his adult life to write Hope.

Hope, Andrew’s debut novel, follows a young girl, Taylor, who faces many intense challenges. She finds herself trapped in a dangerous setting, with her school bully. This new challenge unlocks an understanding in Taylor.

The set of circumstances leads Taylor to discover life’s hard and beautiful truths. She understands what it means to truly forgive and why it is important.

Having read the novel myself, I found the themes of understanding and the importance of young minds to shine through beautifully. But in this, I also noticed a consistency with Adrew’s writing; Hope had a sense of simplicity to it.

Over the course of a weekend, the 408 pages flew by. At an event held at the O. Cope Budge Library, I was given the privilege to facilitate a Q&A with Andrew. During this time asking him questions, Andrew mentioned that he set out writing Hope, with the intention of writing something he would have enjoyed as a child.

Andrew confessed that he did not enjoy reading, because the chapters would seem so overwhelming. This led to Andrew’s technique of short chapters that are easy for young kids to read, understand, and enjoy.

Being a fourth-grade teacher at the beginning of his writing journey, he also tested out the new chapters he would write on his students. He recalled their eager requests for just “one more chapter.”

The short chapters, and clear imagery Andrew displays in Hope, are just some of the perks of reading this novel. There is beauty found in the story of young kids, finding how to exist and make their presence known.

Congratulations to Andrew Nztouras on finishing his first novel and doing so with such care and intention. We hope to read and review more of your work soon!