There were so many reasons that I liked this book. The tragic opening, the characters, the journey of a naive little girl to a young woman whom I believed found hope. I also enjoyed the spiritual subtleties. As I read, I couldn't help to think that God knew and provided exactly what Mouse needed as she transitioned to womanhood. With each new city, Mouse was embraced by a "mother". Each "mother" helped to mold Mouse into a successful career woman. This booked also reminded me of the importance of forgiveness. Although Mouse had attained some professional success, it seemed she needed to forgive Ray for his past transgressions. I was so relieved when Mouse let it go. At that point Mouse forgave Ray is when I believe Mouse truly found hope.

How do I say awesome? I was hooked from the first chapter, glued to the page and wondering what was next as Mouse ventured from city to city, on the run from destiny. The author's mastery of prose weaves a beautiful tale of mystery, intrigue and the strength of black women in the midst of tragedy. One of the best works by a first time author that I have read in a long time. Captivating from beginning to end!

Looking for Hope by Mbinguni garnered my attention immediately with the discerning gaze of the protagonist on the cover. The tragedy that occurs in the first chapter sets the pace for the novel as layers are peeled away, like an onion, to reveal a child's development into women hood while battling fear, loneliness and grief. I enjoyed the journey we were taken on with Ray and Mouse and the cast of colorful characters that were introduced from Ms. Janie to Mr. Earl. Ms. Sookie, Ms. Pearl and everyone in between. The author was careful with details and descriptions which enabled this reader to have vivid visuals of the towns, seasons, aromas and characters. Down to the mention of "Mom's Mabley" being on the radio, the time progression was structured well and allowed the flow of events in the book to coincide with factual accounts during the period. Some of the narrative elements of this story could have been "ripped" from the headlines of any National Newspaper, however being a work of fiction, allowed the author to navigate the story into a most palatable plot, laced with life lessons and comedic elements. I really enjoyed this story and how it came together in the end (Not to mention, I love a title that is revealed to be a "double entendre").

“Looking for Hope” was a dynamic read that had me on the edge of my seat, heart thumping, and nail biting. The book opens with the life of The Maynards, nice family but they have their issues. The family quickly finds themselves in a very tragic situation which leads them on the run having to disguise themselves. Through their journey, the family encounters many different people who provides Mouse (Hannah) life lessons and encouragement of what/who she could be, despite still not knowing truly who the family Mouse and her father (Hannah and Ray) really were from last name to why they showed up in town. As the book progresses Hannah meets friends some wonderful while others allow her to experience the racism that exist. This author takes the reader on the journey with the family to each town. As you read you will see the decrepitness of homes and the ugliness of people living their privileged lives. I felt like I was in each town and at one point I felt I was on the bicycle with the girls hoping to not be harmed by what we were riding into. The development of people places and things were just SUPERB! My title, “Forgiveness is for the Victim” Mouse learned that lesson but as she learned it, she also learned the sufferings of the perpetrator. (Thank you,Ms Pearl).This book gave me everything I wanted, a page turner, heart palpitations of anticipation of what will happen next to an Amazing closing. Thank you for pinning a great book that will stay with me long after today. This book is chosen as our April meeting, I can’t wait for the discussion.