That Was Then, This Is Now discussion

Over winter break, I decided to buy a book that would entertain me during my family’s annual twelve-hour car ride to my grandmother’s house. I asked an employee at Barnes and Noble for a book suggestion, and she immediately gave me this novel. Written by the critically acclaimed author of The Outsiders, S. E. Hinton, the story follows Bryon and his friend Mark, who lives with Bryon after his parents were killed, as they experience their teenage years while living in a crime-ridden community. Much like the characters from The Outsiders; initially, the protagonists come across as somewhat shifty, often participating in gang-related acts. However, one night their actions result in life-altering consequences, which permanently change Bryon. Although this novel did not emphasize the characters' external struggles to the degree to which I am accustomed, I am still a fan of this book and of S. E. Hinton, as her writing allows the reader to become immersed in her books. Although this novel is indeed not as eventful as The Outsiders, it demonstrates the effect a significant event can have on one’s personality and outlook on life, which is a reason that I enjoyed reading it. I also am a fan of S. E. Hinton’s writing, as her readers are often immersed in her books, despite this one not emphasizing external struggles as much as I am accustomed to. When I bought the novel, I expected it to be reminiscent of her other books; however, That Was Then, This Is Now is much less eventful, which can make the plot seem lacking in substance. But this story emphasizes the dilemma Bryon, and many of Hinton’s readers are faced with during their teenage years: do I continue participating in childish activities or should I begin acting like a responsible adult? The execution of Byron's endeavor to become more mature leads to tension within his friend group that permanently changes the nature of their relationship. I would recommend this novel to any fan of S. E. Hinton and for readers who enjoy finding a deeper meaning in books, which they can apply to their own lives.