Everything I Hope For by Cinda Gault (Book Review #2021)

Cinda Gault’s Everything I Hope For is a beautifully crafted coming-of-age novel that explores themes of family, identity, love, and personal growth. Set in the early 1970s, the story follows Belinda Pompey, a bright and introspective young woman navigating the challenges of a fractured home, societal expectations, and the excitement of first love.

Belinda’s world is shifting—her parents’ marriage is falling apart, and with it, the stability of her childhood home. Her mother, determined to reclaim her independence, and her father, struggling to hold onto the remnants of his dignity, leave Belinda caught in the middle. As she grapples with the weight of their choices, she finds solace in literature, excelling in English and developing a keen understanding of human nature through the novels she reads.

At the heart of the novel is Belinda’s relationship with John Resurreccion, a free-spirited young man with long hair, no real plan for the future, and a past shaped by the rise and fall of a rock band. Their connection is immediate yet layered with uncertainty. John’s charm and idealistic dreams of an unconventional life contrast with Belinda’s structured world, making their relationship a push-and-pull of desires, ambitions, and realities.

Gault’s writing is immersive and poetic, drawing readers into Belinda’s internal struggles with sharp, reflective prose. The novel captures the spirit of the era, from underground youth movements to the shifting roles of women in society. The dialogue is rich and authentic, revealing the complex relationships between Belinda and those around her.

Everything I Hope For is a poignant, deeply felt novel that doesn’t shy away from the messy, uncertain nature of growing up. It is a story of self-discovery, resilience, and the pursuit of hope amidst life’s uncertainties. Fans of literary fiction and character-driven narratives will find much to admire in Gault’s thoughtful storytelling.

Written by Jeyran Main

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