A review by lsmith725
Before the Ever After by Jacqueline Woodson

challenging emotional informative reflective fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

This was informative and touching at the same time.  So real.  This explores the way a brain injury affects a family, and how race plays into that dynamic as well.  ZJ was such a realistic, lovable young boy, and his parents are wonderful as well.  I just adored this.  My one critique was that I was not as intrigued as I wanted to be because I knew the symptoms the dad was facing were from a brain injury; younger readers would likely find this suspenseful and enjoy working out what was going on with the father.  I believe this would be a highly beneficial read for young readers.