Before the Ever After

by Jaqueline Woodson

ZJ’s  father is professional football player who is much loved by his family, friends and fans.  Because of multiple concussions throughout many years of playing,  ZJ’s father’s mood begins to change,  he suffers  with constant, severe headaches, and he is beginning to lose his memory.  ZJ’s  mother along with his three close friends, provide support for ZJ during this most anxious time.

Out of 1 to 5 stars, I gave this book 5 stars.  In spite of the trauma  in this book, written  by the multiple award winning author, Jacqueline Woodson, the love of family and friends wins over. The text is written in free verse with much white space, making it a comfortable read for often uncomfortable moments.

Read to find out how ZJ’s mother and friends help him cope, what special talent ZJ has that helped both him and his father relax,  if his father recovers,  if ZJ continues with his own football aspirations… and… just what  is chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).