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Before the Ever After summary
Brief summary
Before the Ever After by Jacqueline Woodson is a heartfelt novel that explores the impact of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) on a family. Through beautiful prose, it delves into themes of love, resilience, and the power of friendship.
Table of Contents
Before the Ever After
Summary of key ideas
The Lingering Impact of CTE
In Before the Ever After, Jacqueline Woodson delves into the crushing realities of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) through the perspective of a twelve-year-old boy, ZJ. ZJ's father, Zachariah Johnson Sr., is a famous football player and the hero in his son's eyes. But things start to unravel when Zachariah begins forgetting simple things and showing unexplained anger, typical symptoms of CTE, a degenerative brain condition common in athletes exposed to repeated head trauma.
ZJ's life begins to drift from joyful sessions of music and shared stories to a perpetual state of anxiety, observing his father's increasing bouts of forgetting and confusion. This change forms the beginning of the story where ZJ reminisces about the past, the 'before the ever after,' when life was cheerfully simple and predictably pleasant.
Coping with a Crumbling Reality
The middle of the book revolves around coping with the ongoing issue. Woodson beautifully portrays how ZJ and his friends find solace in music and lyrics, creating a harmonious escape from their crumbling realities. You'll find the juxtaposition of ZJ's vibrant childhood and his father's deteriorating condition deeply moving as ZJ reels with the disintegration of the man he once idolized.
From failed treatments to diminished family resources and an ever-increasing gap between the father and his son, Woodson encapsulates the bittersweet transition of a boy forced to grow up too soon. The author masterfully articulates this aspect of the story through her poignant character sketches and emotive storyline.
The Unseen Victims of CTE
Through ZJ's narrative in Before the Ever After, Woodson draws attention to the unseen victims of CTE - the families. She emphasizes the toll it takes on the people who live through the pain and struggle of their loved ones suffering from CTE. Through unwavering love and support, they become the unsung heroes in the life of the sufferer.
Despite the painful transitions, Woodson cleverly infuses hope and resilience into her characters. Though the dream of regaining the 'before the ever after' fades away, ZJ's strength and determination become an inspiration as the reality of his 'ever after' defines his new normal.
Coming to Terms with the 'Ever After'
The end of the story is an ode to acceptance - of the circumstances, the pain, the memory loss - and of the new persona of a beloved father. ZJ's coming to terms with his father's state is powerful and symbolizes a transformation from a world dominated by football stardom to one held by togetherness, love, and acceptance.
In conclusion, Before the Ever After is a poignant exploration of a child's untimely passage into adulthood compelled by a family tragedy. Jacqueline Woodson invites you on an emotionally stirring journey through ZJ's life impacted by CTE, wielding love, music, and hope as tools of resilience.
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What is Before the Ever After about?
Before the Ever After is a poignant novel that explores the impact of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) on a family. Told from the perspective of a young boy whose father is a former NFL player suffering from the effects of CTE, the book delves into themes of love, loss, and the power of family bonds. It offers a heartfelt portrayal of the challenges faced by those living with the long-term consequences of sports-related brain injuries.
Before the Ever After Review
Before the Ever After (2020) by Jacqueline Woodson is a heartwarming novel that explores the themes of love, family, and hope. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- With its beautifully crafted characters and their struggles, it offers a relatable and moving story that will resonate with readers.
- The book addresses important issues such as traumatic brain injury and the impact it can have on both individuals and their loved ones, fostering empathy and understanding.
- Through its poignant and lyrical prose, it captures the emotions and complexities of life, making it an engaging and thought-provoking read.
Who should read Before the Ever After?
- Readers who want to explore the impact of sports on family dynamics and personal identity
- Those interested in stories about resilience and finding strength in the face of adversity
- People who appreciate beautifully written, emotionally resonant novels
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Before the Ever After FAQs
What is the main message of Before the Ever After?
The main message of Before the Ever After is the impact of pro football on a family navigating the challenges of chronic traumatic encephalopathy.
How long does it take to read Before the Ever After?
The reading time for Before the Ever After varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Before the Ever After a good book? Is it worth reading?
Before the Ever After is worth reading as it sheds light on the effects of football-related brain injuries on families. A thought-provoking and engaging read.
Who is the author of Before the Ever After?
The author of Before the Ever After is Jacqueline Woodson.
What to read after Before the Ever After?
If you're wondering what to read next after Before the Ever After, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Losing My Virginity by Richard Branson
- The Immortal Life Of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
- I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai
- Gang Leader For A Day by Sudhir Venkatesh
- Do No Harm by Henry Marsh