35 Kilos of Hope

"35 Kilo of Hope" by Anna Gavalda is a heartwarming story about a boy who struggles in our school system, which far too rarely fosters individual talents. But if there is just one person who believes in you, then there is a chance for everyone to find their own path in life. Translated by Ursula Schregel Edited by Petra Wüllenweber "I hate school. Nothing is worse in the world," proclaims 13-year-old David with fervor. Reading and math are difficult for him. Homework is a torment. The psychologist diagnoses him as unable to concentrate. His parents argue because of him, but also because their love has been buried in the daily grind. Only with his grandfather Léon does David feel understood. His workshop is a paradise for the boy. There he can tinker, build, and invent new devices, as he is exceptionally good at it. Unfortunately, there are no good grades for that in school. To become popular with his classmates, he plays the class clown. Many teachers do not find that funny at all. David fails the same grade for the second time and gets expelled from school. His parents want to send him to boarding school, but who would take someone like him? When he comes across a technical boarding school, his ambition is ignited. It would be worth the effort to strive for that. Encouraged by his grandfather, who urges him, "Take your life into your own hands!", he does everything he can to get into this school. He wants to finally use his strengths and not let his weaknesses get him down. "35 Kilo of Hope" by Anna Gavalda is a heartwarming story about a boy who struggles in our school system, which far too rarely fosters individual talents. But if there is just one person who believes in you, then there is a chance for everyone to find their own path in life.