Before the Ever After
on Goodreads (15,418)
What’s inside...
Jacqueline Woodson's novel-in-verse explores how a family moves forward when their glory days have passed and the cost of professional sports on Black bodies. For as long as ZJ can remember, his dad has been everyone's hero. As a charming, talented pro football star, he's as beloved to the neighborhood kids he plays with as he is to his millions of adoring sports fans. But lately life at ZJ's house is anything but charming. His dad is having trouble remembering things and seems to be angry all the time. ZJ's mom explains it's because of all the head injuries his dad sustained during his career. ZJ can understand that--but it doesn't make the sting any less real when his own father forgets his name. As ZJ contemplates his new reality, he has to figure out how to hold on tight to family traditions and recollections of the glory days, all the while wondering what their past amounts to if his father can't remember it. And most importantly, can those happy feelings ever be reclaimed when they are all so busy aching for the past?
Age
10-13
Length
176 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Zachariah 'Zj' Johnson Jr.
Zj'S Mother
Daniel
Darry
Oliver
Zachariah Johnson Sr.
Discussion points
How do you think ZJ feels about the changes in his dad? What do you think you would feel in his situation?
What role do ZJ's friends play in helping him cope with his father's condition? How do your friends help you during tough times?
Why do you think music is important to ZJ and his dad? What activities do you enjoy doing with your family?
How does ZJ's relationship with his father change throughout the book? Can you share a time when your relationship with someone changed?
What do you think the title 'Before the Ever After' means in the context of the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Empathize with the emotions depicted in the story, and share similar personal experiences to make the conversation more relatable.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book, listening attentively to understand their perspective.
Discuss the importance of friendship and support systems, asking your child about who they turn to for support during challenging times.
Explore the theme of change and resilience, prompting your child to think about how they adapt to new situations or challenges.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Coping with change
Explanation: The protagonist, ZJ, deals with the evolving health issues of his father, a former football star, showing how family dynamics change in response to health crises.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to understand and adapt to significant changes within their family or community, helping them build resilience and empathy.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship
Explanation: ZJ relies on his friends for emotional support during his father’s illness, showing the power of friendship in difficult times.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to cherish and seek support from their friendships during challenging periods in their lives.
Example Lesson: Understanding and compassion for mental health
Explanation: The book portrays the mental and emotional strains on individuals and families dealing with chronic illness, fostering a deeper understanding of mental health issues.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of mental health, leading to more compassionate interactions with others who might be struggling silently.
Example Lesson: Importance of memory and legacy
Explanation: Through ZJ’s reminiscences about better times with his father, the story highlights how memories shape our identity and connection to others.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate their experiences and heritage, instilling a sense of identity and continuity.