Book Review: The Age of Hope

Phyllis Bruce Books (2012)

By David Bergen

Well, this is it! Our first post! Even though I'm the face behind Bingley's Book Reviews, of the two of us, L is the real powerhouse reader, and since she reads so much (and loves to tell me what she thinks of the books, spoilers and all--don't worry, I edit those parts out before posting about them here) we thought we'd share them with you too! 

For our first review, L and I sat down with a copy of a somewhat oldie but goodie by Winnipeg author David Bergen (his latest novel, Here the Dark, is currently shortlisted for the Giller Prize. Can't wait to get my paws on a copy of that!). As fellow Manitobans, L and I have a special place in our hearts for local authors and we love to discover the immense talent that comes from our own province.

L immediately became absorbed with Bergen’s story of the life of fictional character Hope Koop (so absorbed that she served me three consecutively late suppers, I might add...).  Hope’s story begins as she meets Roy Koop, the man she will eventually marry, and they settle into married life in the predominately Mennonite town of Eden just outside of Winnipeg. Bergen weaves an interesting tale of marriage and parenthood within a sheltered Mennonite community, coupled with Hope’s bouts of debilitating depression. L found the story especially compelling because her own Mother suffered from manic depression, so she could easily relate to the characters and their emotions.

The story is told in Hope’s voice and follows her thoughts throughout her life as she struggles with her feelings of inadequacy as a wife and mother, her depression, and subsequent hospitalization after which she feels completely alienated from her family and community. As the story deepens, we are introduced in greater depth to Hope’s four children and her fractured relationships with each of them. Most of the novel takes place during the mid-1950s, a time when women were struggling to find their voice and their place in society and Hope questions where exactly she fits into this ever-changing world.

 L and I were amazed at how well Bergen (a male author) was able to convey the thoughts and depth of emotion in his lead female character. L said that as a wife and mother herself, she could totally relate to Hope. Hope’s life certainly wasn’t perfect, as life rarely is, and Bergen’s writing style made the characters very believable.

L’s verdict: This story touched L in a deep and profound way and left her wanting more. For L, it was one those novels that she wished wouldn’t end.

Bingley’s verdict: An interesting, well-written story. I liked it even though I didn’t get fed on time. The Koop family could have benefited greatly by having a dog. (Doesn’t every home need a dog?)

Rating: 5/5 

Interested in reading this title? Check out your local independent bookstore for a copy!