Okay for Now

By Gary D. Schmidt

A troubled teen finds unexpected hope in art and friendship amidst family turmoil.

4.3/5 Goodreads · 39,307 ratings

360 pages· 77,325 words· Est. 8.5 hour read

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Bookroo's summary

Doug Swieteck, labeled a 'teenage thug,' battles a harsh home life and a town's judgment. New in town, he discovers solace in a library, a surprising friendship with Lil, and the power of art. As his brother returns from Vietnam, scarred and angry, Doug must navigate his own path to find something better than just 'okay for now.' Can he redefine himself and uncover a brighter future?

From the publisher

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, who has an abusive father, a bully for a brother, a bad reputation, and shameful secrets to keep. Teachers and police and his relatives think he’s worthless, and he believes them, holding others at arm’s length. Newly arrived in town, he starts out on the same path–antagonizing other kids, mouthing off to teachers, contemptuous of everything intimidating or unfamiliar. Who would have thought that the public library would turn out to be a refuge and an inspiration, that a snooty librarian might be a friend, or that snarky redheaded Lil would like him–really like him? With more than his share of pain, including the return of his oldest brother from the Vietnam War, shattered and angry, will Doug find anything better than “okay for now”?