Forever Is Now
on Goodreads (681)
What’s inside...
Forever is Now is a poignant young adult novel-in-verse by Mariama J. Lockington. It follows Black teen Sadie as she navigates coming of age in an anxiety-inducing world. After witnessing police brutality and receiving an agoraphobia diagnosis, Sadie learns to cope with her mental health while trying to engage in activism from home. With help from her family, friends, and online activists, Sadie discovers inner strength and the importance of finding her voice in a challenging world. This novel addresses themes of mental health, love, family, Black joy, and resilience.
Age
12-18
Length
416 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Sadie
Discussion points
What do you think 'Forever Is Now' means in the context of this story?
How did the characters' actions show the importance of living in the moment?
Can you think of a time when you felt that time stood still? What were you doing?
What would you do if you had a day where time seemed to stop?
How do you think the characters changed by the end of the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think deeply about the concept of 'forever' and how it applies to their own experiences.
Relate the book’s themes to real-life situations your child might encounter, enhancing their connection to the story.
Ask your child to draw a scene from the book that made a strong impression on them, discussing its significance.
Create a fun, relaxed environment for the discussion, perhaps creating a cozy reading nook or having a themed snack based on the book.
Praise your child for their thoughts and responses, reinforcing their confidence in expressing their viewpoints.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of living in the moment
Explanation: The narrative encourages readers to appreciate the present rather than constantly fretting about the future.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by enjoying everyday activities with family and friends, fostering a healthy and balanced mindset.
Example Lesson: The value of self-reflection
Explanation: Characters in the story often engage in self-reflection which helps them understand their desires and dreams.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to think about their actions and feelings, which can aid in their emotional and personal development.
Example Lesson: Understanding and accepting change
Explanation: The book explores how characters cope with changes in their lives, highlighting resilience and adaptability.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children learn to adapt to new environments such as changing schools or cities, which is crucial for psychological resilience.
Example Lesson: Building strong relationships
Explanation: Through its characters, the story shows how honest communication and trust are pillars of strong relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can be taught the significance of honesty and trust in friendships and family relationships, helping them build stronger connections with others.