Before the Ever After

In her National Book Award-winning novel-in-verse, Jacqueline Woodson captures the poignant journey of ZJ, a young boy grappling with the fading legacy of his once-heroic father, a beloved pro football star. As his dad struggles with memory loss and anger due to the toll of his sports career, ZJ navigates the complexities of family, tradition, and the longing for the past. This heartfelt narrative explores the impact of professional sports on Black bodies and the enduring strength of familial connections amidst changing realities.