The Book: Before the Ever After by Jacqueline Woodson

Why?  "Jacqueline Woodson is truly one of my favorite authors. I read this book in one day -- I couldn't put it down!  It's written in a special way, almost like reading someone's thoughts or feelings, which makes it super easy to connect with. Written in verse, it's easy to get lost in the emotions of the main character dealing with his father's illness. This book helps kids think about important topics like family, sports, and how fame can affect people. I highly recommend it to all readers of all middle-grade levels!"

From the Publisher: "For as long as ZJ can remember, his dad has been everyone’s hero. As a charming, talented pro football star, he’s as beloved to the neighborhood kids he plays with as he is to his millions of adoring sports fans. But lately life at ZJ’s house is anything but charming. His dad is having trouble remembering things and seems to be angry all the time. ZJ’s mom explains it’s because of all the head injuries his dad sustained during his career. ZJ can understand that–but it doesn’t make the sting any less real when his own father forgets his name. As ZJ contemplates his new reality, he has to figure out how to hold on tight to family traditions and recollections of the glory days, all the while wondering what their past amounts to if his father can’t remember it. And most importantly, can those happy feelings ever be reclaimed when they are all so busy aching for the past?"

Ms. Ciampa is an ELA teacher at Edison Intermediate School