Okay for Now

By Gary D. Schmidt,

Book cover of Okay for Now

Book description

Beloved author Gary D. Schmidt expertly blends comedy and tragedy in the story of Doug Swieteck, an unhappy "teenage thug" first introduced in The Wednesday Wars, who finds consolation and a sense of possibility in friendship and art.

At once heartbreaking and hopeful, this absorbing novel centers on Doug, 14,…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

1 author picked Okay for Now as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

I don’t have words for how masterful this book is. (I know, I’m a writer, I’m supposed to have words). I’m constantly blown away by Schmidt’s writing. The novel, set in 1968, is the story of fourteen-year-old Doug Swieteck, whose abusive father moves the family to a new town. Doug’s first-person voice is so alive and original. He tells you a lot, but not everything. And what he’s hiding is revealed in scenes that will stay with me forever, among them one in PE class, and another when Doug’s brother returns from Vietnam. On every page, you sense Doug’s emotional…

From Diana's list on music, art and friendship.

If you love Okay for Now...

Ad

Book cover of Hotel Oscar Mike Echo

Hotel Oscar Mike Echo By Linda MacKillop,

Home isn’t always what we dream it will be.

Eleven-year-old Sierra just wants a normal life. After her military mother returns from the war overseas, the two hop from home to homelessness while Sierra tries to help her mom through the throes of PTSD.

When they end up at a…

Want books like Okay for Now?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like Okay for Now.

Browse books like Okay for Now

Book cover of Chasing Vermeer
Book cover of The Ballad of a Broken Nose
Book cover of The Chance to Fly

Share your top 3 reads of 2024!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,592

readers submitted
so far, will you?

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in theatres, New York State, and coming of age?

Theatres 80 books
New York State 563 books
Coming Of Age 1,390 books