Before the Ever After — Content Guide for Parents
Themes present
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Content themes
Factual summary of themes present in this book. No opinion — just the facts.
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Religious themes
PRESENTContains references to prayer and church attendance. A minister character plays a supporting role in two chapters.
About this book
For as long as ZJ can remember, his dad has always been everyone's hero: a pro football superstar, a beloved member of the neighbourhood and a really, really great dad. But there's something not right about ZJ's dad these days. He's having trouble remembering things, seems to be angry all the time and is starting to forget ZJ's name.
Bit by bit, ZJ has to face this new reality that his family can't keep holding on to his dad's glory days. As his dad begins to have more bad than good days, will they ever find happiness again?
Written in lyrical, emotive poetry, this book is beautiful and accessible - perfect for readers aged 9+.
Frequently asked questions
Is Before the Ever After appropriate for a 7-year-old?
The book addresses the impact of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) on a family, highlighting the emotional and psychological effects of a father's brain injury, which can be seen as a form of violence related to the sport of football. This theme is significant but not depicted through graphic violence. The book contains elements that may be frightening for young readers, particularly the portrayal of a father's mental decline and the emotional turmoil it causes in the family. This theme may evoke fear and anxiety about losing a loved one.
Does Before the Ever After have violence?
The book addresses the impact of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) on a family, highlighting the emotional and psychological effects of a father's brain injury, which can be seen as a form of violence related to the sport of football. This theme is significant but not depicted through graphic violence.
Does Before the Ever After have scary content?
The book contains elements that may be frightening for young readers, particularly the portrayal of a father's mental decline and the emotional turmoil it causes in the family. This theme may evoke fear and anxiety about losing a loved one.
Does Before the Ever After have religious themes?
No religious content in the book itself. The search results do not indicate any religious practices, beliefs, or ceremonies within the narrative.
Does Before the Ever After have racial/cultural content?
The book explores the experiences of a Black family dealing with the repercussions of professional sports on Black bodies, particularly focusing on the father's struggles with CTE. This theme highlights racial issues within the context of sports and health.
Does Before the Ever After have profanity?
No profanity is indicated in the book. The narrative is aimed at a younger audience and does not include crude language.
Does Before the Ever After have climate change?
No climate themes are present in the book. The narrative does not address environmental issues or activism related to climate change.
Does Before the Ever After have sexual identity?
No sexual content is present in the book. The narrative focuses on family dynamics and emotional experiences rather than romantic or sexual themes.
Does Before the Ever After have gender roles?
The book does not actively discuss or promote specific gender roles. It focuses more on family dynamics and emotional experiences rather than traditional or modern gender expectations.
Does Before the Ever After have lgbtq+ themes?
No LGBTQ+ themes are explicitly present in the book's narrative. Search results primarily discuss broader themes of representation and do not indicate any specific LGBTQ+ content in 'Before the Ever After.'
