Gary D. Schmidt's Okay for Now is praised for its compelling narrative and complex character development, particularly the protagonist's growth. Critics commend its sensitive handling of difficult themes, though some feel the numerous subplots muddy the story. Overall, it's celebrated for its emotional depth and strong portrayal of resilience amidst hardship.

Readers who would enjoy Okay for Now by Gary D. Schmidt are typically young adults who appreciate poignant stories of personal growth, historical context, and resilience. Fans of Wonder by R.J. Palacio or Holes by Louis Sachar, which blend humor and touching narratives, will find this novel compelling.

Okay for Now by Gary D. Schmidt follows Doug Swieteck, a middle schooler who moves to Marysville, New York, after his father loses his job. At his new home, Doug meets Lil, befriends Mrs. Windemere, and begins learning to draw under Mr. Powell's guidance. Despite family struggles and suspicion due to his brother's actions, Doug finds acceptance at school, and the novel concludes with Doug performing in Mrs. Windemere's play and teetering on hope amidst uncertainty. The novel contains themes involving alcoholism, abuse, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Melancholic / Bittersweet / Inspirational / Heartwarming / Contemplative

Gary D. Schmidt

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Teaching Guide

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Okay for Now and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Okay for Now Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-3

Okay for Now Chapters 1-3

Chapters 4-6

Okay for Now Chapters 4-6

Chapters 7-8

Okay for Now Chapters 7-8

Chapters 9-10 

Okay for Now Chapters 9-10 

character

Character Analysis

Okay for Now Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Okay for Now Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Okay for Now Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Okay for Now Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Okay for Now Essay Topics

Okay for Now Teaching Unit

Introduction

Okay for Now Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

Reading Context

Okay for Now Reading Context

During Reading

Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Okay for Now Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Answer Key

Okay for Now Reading Questions Answer Key

After Reading

Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Okay for Now Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Activities

Okay for Now Activities

Essay Questions

Okay for Now Essay Questions

Exam Questions

Okay for Now Cumulative Exam Questions

Exam Answer Key

Okay for Now Exam Answer Key

Okay for Now

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Okay for Now?

Reading Age

Book Details