Books have long played an important role in providing comfort and inspiration during difficult periods. As the world faces challenges, turning to stories that illustrate humanity’s resilience and hope can lift our spirits. With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of novels and children’s books that are particularly touching with their messages of courage in the face of adversity, redemption despite past wrongs, and the indomitable human spirit that perseveres through our darkest days. Each of these stories of hope, in its own way, reminds us that light can emerge even from profound darkness when we come together through compassion.
8 Stories of Hope to Read on Dark Days
1.    “And God Smiled” by Barbara Spangler
One of the best stories of hope is Barbara Spangler’s charming children’s book “And God Smiled.” This heartwarming tale follows the adventures of Little Sweet Pea Butter Bean, a curious little bird, and Tyler, a young boy who protects the golden oak forest. When Little Sweet Pea Butter Bean notices barren lands beyond the forest that need new growth, it calls on all the little birds to carry acorns and plant seeds of renewal.
Over the years, under Tyler’s guardianship, a vibrant new forest sprouts from those seeds. The story celebrates the small but meaningful contributions each individual can make toward a brighter future. It teaches children that even the littlest among us have an important role to play if we work together toward a common goal. With diligence and community support, desolate places can bloom once more.
2.    “The Little Engine That Could” by Watty Piper
Another story instilling hope is “The Little Engine That Could” by Watty Piper. This classic underdog story shows that attitude makes all the difference. When asked to help deliver toys to good little boys and girls, the Little Blue Engine is determined to succeed despite her size. Through positivity and perseverance (“I think I can, I think I can”), she overcomes challenges that daunted larger engines. The tale reminds children and adults that we are stronger than we realize when we believe in ourselves.
3.    “The Kite Runner” by Khaled Hosseini
For older readers, “The Kite Runner” by Khaled Hosseini explores the deeply moving story of Amir and Hassan, whose childhood friendship is disrupted by political and social turmoil in Afghanistan. Even amidst violence and loss, their bond survives through compassion and the power of redemption. The novel highlights hopes that can endure over generations when we make amends for past wrongs and build connections across divisions.
4.    “The Poisonwood Bible” by Barbara Kingsolver
Another riveting tale of societal upheaval with echoes of hope is “The Poisonwood Bible” by Barbara Kingsolver. Set during the Congo Crisis in the 1960s, it follows the Price family’s harrowing experience as American missionaries in a country descending into chaos. Though darkness prevails at several turns, glimpses of humanity’s indomitable spirit also emerge. Small acts of cross-cultural understanding and female empowerment hint that new growth may rise from Congo’s ashes in time.
5.    “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio
Another inspiring story for children is “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio. This moving tale tells of Auggie, a 10-year-old boy born with facial differences, causing him to be homeschooled until fifth grade. Entering public school for the first time, Auggie must navigate new social challenges and face ignorance from some classmates not accustomed to his appearance. However, he also finds acceptance from good friends like Jack Will and Summer. Through Auggie’s journey, the story promotes compassion and shows that true beauty lies not in how one looks on the outside but within our shared human qualities of bravery, kindness, and friendship. It’s a poignant reminder of the importance of embracing our differences and seeing others for who they are.
6.    “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas
For young adult readers, “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas is especially impactful. Sixteen-year-old Starr Carter is constantly divided between two worlds – her poor, mostly black neighborhood and the wealthy, mostly white private school she attends. This balance is shattered when she witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend Khalil at the hands of a police officer. As protests erupt and media attention intensifies, Starr must make sense of what this tragedy means for her and her community. She finds her voice to confront racial issues in America through nonviolent action. The novel powerfully sparks introspection and pushes readers of all backgrounds to have empathy for those experiencing the daily realities of racism, injustice and police brutality. It inspires hope that through open dialogue and peaceful activism, social change is possible.
7.    “Night” by Elie Wiesel
A deeply affecting memoir of survival against the odds is “Night” by Elie Wiesel. The Holocaust survivor recounts his harrowing experience as a teenager imprisoned in Auschwitz and Buchenwald. Despite facing unimaginable cruelty and loss, Wiesel’s story conveys messages of maintaining one’s humanity in inhumane circumstances through compassion, faith and will to survive. It is a powerful remembrance of man’s capacity for inhumanity and our spirit’s incredible resilience.
8.    “Wild” by Cheryl Strayed
For readers seeking an uplifting tale of personal growth, “Wild” by Cheryl Strayed chronicles the author’s 1,100-mile hike along the Pacific Crest Trail after losing her mother and unraveling her own life. The memoir captures moments of hardship and breathtaking natural landscapes, tracing Strayed’s internal exploration and the revelation of a newfound inner strength. Her story inspires us all to embrace life’s difficult yet meaningful transitions with courage, perseverance and appreciation for each step.
Add Barbara Spangler’s “And God Smiled” to the Cart
These stories of hope demonstrate that hope can blossom even in the most desolate of circumstances. They remind us that each person contributes to society’s light through compassion and moral courage. They suggest redemption is possible when we make amends, empower the marginalized, and support one another in pursuit of a brighter future – just as Tyler, the Little Engine, and others did.
Barbara Spangler’s “And God Smiled” is a must-read for anyone looking for literature on hope. Order your copy today and explore the strength in unity.
