. . . dramatically conveys how swiftly an 'ordinary' life can change, but also probes the depth of the struggle to rise from despair to hope.' - Publishers Weekly Kaitlin Roig - Debellis is the first - grade teacher at Sandy Hook Elementary School who saved her entire class of fifteen six - and - seven - year - olds from the tragic events that took place on December 14, 2012, by piling them into a tiny bathroom within her classroom, mere feet from the brutal massacre taking place outside the door. Since then, despite the unimaginably painful experiences she endured, she has chosen to share her experience with others, in the hope that they too can find light in dark moments. Choosing Hope is many things. A written witness to a tragedy that will never be forgotten. A gripping firsthand testament to the power of good over the power of destruction. An inspirational memoir by a brave young woman whose story is one of courage, heroism, faith, and resilience. And a celebration of all the people who make the choice to pass along their hope and positivity to young ones - parents, mentors, and especially teachers. There is no moving on, but there is always moving forward. And how we move forward is a choice.