farahxreads's Reviews > Before the Ever After

This is the second book I’ve read of Jacqueline Woodson and like Red at the Bone, this too was a showcase of Woodson’s command of language and literary prowess.

“All those times he got knocked down and knocked out, my daddy kept getting up but maybe some part of him stayed on the ground.”

Written in lyrical verse, Before the Ever After follows the story of ZJ, dealing with the change that has been happening to his dad, Zachariah, a professional football player. ZJ’s dad, who was once a cheerful, energetic and affectionate man started behaving angrily, developing anxiety and forgetting stuffs. It is to be noted that the story was set in the late 90s, therefore the doctors had no idea what was wrong with ZJ’s dad. In the author’s note, it was mentioned that it was not until 2016 that the link between brain damage and the sport that is most loved by American was finally acknowledged.

Simultaneously touching and heartbreaking, the book explores the themes of love, grief, hope, growth and loss. It further delves into bigger themes such as the impact and challenges of a permanent disabling disease on a family, the importance of a support system during difficult times and the risk one should take for athletic success - is the love towards the sport worth the possibility of a lifetime brain damage?

Although this novel is aimed at a middle grade audience, I found it perfect for adult readers as well. As the adage goes “there is a kid within each of us” and thus I highly recommend this book to everyone, especially if you are a fan of American football and Woodson’s writing. Overall, Before the Ever After is a poignant addition to the collection of middle grade’s literature and one that I will definitely come back and savor again.

Thank you Times Reads for the review copy in exchange for an honest review.