Hope Unite's Book Club: C.O.P.E.
Caring for Others' Personal Experiences
Join C.O.P.E. on a journey of empathy, and connection.
Together we can encourage healing using our shared experiences.
Current Book:
"Moonlight King"
"The Moonlight King is a true account of the power of the human spirit. What Derek went through... to come out of it as such a being of love and light astounds me and touches my soul. His book, and he, himself, encourage me to be the best person I can be. I was truly surprised that he has never written before, as this book is so masterfully done. He tells his story with such color, that it is often hard to read. Yet, at the same time, he punctuates it with his humorous observations that sometimes caused me to laugh out loud. Please read the Moonlight King and prepare for your life to change."
Forward Words from Moonlight King
by Denise M. McShane, Screenwriter
Seoul, Korea, 1977.
A young couple makes the most painful decision of their lives.
Driven by shame, they send their only son away into a foreign adoption.
He is just six years old.
A new country.
A new language.
A life he cannot possibly understand.
He is mistreated.
He is broken.
He is forced into silence.
He builds walls no one can see.
Bars no one can break.
Scars that don’t heal.
Wounds that remain open.
Can he battle his demons?
Can he conquer the darkness?
The fight for freedom begins within.
The Moonlight King — the true life story of Derek DeCosta.
The Moonlight King Author
Meet Derek DeCosta
Derek DeCosta was born on April 23, 1971, as Yoon Sang Kyun in the village of Uijeongbu, South Korea, where he lived a privileged and joyful early life.
At just six and a half years old, Derek was sent for adoption to the United States – a decision driven by his birth family’s desire to conceal the shame of divorce. Instead of a fresh start, Derek endured eight years of captivity under his adoptive mother and her teenage son, where he was subjected to relentless abuse. At age 14, he found the courage to escape and begin his journey toward healing.
Over the next several decades, Derek would transform himself – from student to soldier, fighter to educator. Today, he runs a thriving wellness practice, teaching clients of all ages in both physical and spiritual disciplines. He has devoted his life to inspiring and empowering others to discover the freedom that lives within themselves.
C.O.P.E (Comforting Others through Personal Experience)
Hope Unite’s online book club provides a nurturing haven for individuals seeking solace and restoration. Within our community, we aim to foster connections among those who have experienced trauma and grief, which is an experience that resonates with everyone in some way. We invite you to join us on this healing journey.
Here's what you can expect:
Meeting Schedule:
Our first meeting with be Sunday, July 7th. We will gather weekly via Zoom every Sunday from 7:00 to 8:00 pm EST, making it accessible to participants from anywhere in the world. During our meetings, we will delve into one chapter of our chosen book and engage in open discussions.
Join at Any Time:
While you can join our club at any point, we encourage newcomers to catch up with the group's reading to ensure everyone is on the same page, both literally and figuratively. Our book selections will be chosen to inspire empathy and connection. Our aim is to be a safe space to share life's challenges, experiences, strength and hope.
Interlude Between Books:
We'll take a month-long break between each book for sign-ups and to allow ample time for members to acquire the next book. If you have a book recommendation, please submit it here.
Membership Requirements:
1. Confidentiality Agreement:
To ensure a safe and trustworthy environment, all members will be asked to follow the confidentiality agreement included in our membership form.
2. Safe Space Commitment:
We are committed to being a sanctuary where words are chosen with care, where respect and grace are the norm. Please remember that we're all here to support and heal together.
Sign Up Today!
Hope Unite Newsletter
Get email updates about the people’s stories and the impact we’re making
Our Proud Sponsors
Given the nature of our organization, we may collect sensitive information related to mental health & crisis situations. We handle such information with the utmost care and confidentiality.
We are a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization. All Donations are Tax Deductible.
We believe that all people matter. We cater to everyone regardless of their gender, race, religion, political party, or sexual orientation.
We use SMS text messaging for various purposes, including promotions, updates, and communication with volunteersand clients. We will never text you without your consent, and you can revoke consent at any time by replyingwith the word STOP or contacting your HUI representative directly.
