"That Was Then, This Is Now" is a novel written by S.E. Hinton, published in 1971. The novel follows the story of two teenage boys, Bryon Douglas and Mark Jennings, who are inseparable friends living in a rough neighborhood in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Bryon is the narrator of the story, and he tells the tale of how he and Mark grew up together, facing the challenges and hardships of their environment. Bryon is a rebellious and hot-headed teenager, while Mark is more level-headed and responsible. Despite their differences, the two boys are close friends who have each other's backs no matter what.
As the story unfolds, we see the boys grow up and face the realities of adulthood. Bryon struggles with his relationships and his sense of purpose, while Mark finds himself drawn into a world of crime and violence. Despite their best efforts to stay true to each other and their friendship, the boys eventually find themselves drifting apart as their lives take different paths.
"That Was Then, This Is Now" is a coming-of-age tale that explores the complexities of friendship, loyalty, and growing up in a tough world. It is a powerful and poignant story that speaks to the struggles and triumphs of adolescence and the challenges of navigating the transition to adulthood.
Overall, "That Was Then, This Is Now" is a thought-provoking and deeply moving novel that will resonate with readers of all ages. Its enduring themes of friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery make it a timeless classic that will continue to inspire and touch the hearts of readers for generations to come.
That Was Then... This Is Now
Mark was small and compact, with strange golden eyes and hair to match and a grin like a friendly lion. Meanwhile, the financial strife at home grows worse. It got to the point where I'm not even sure if these characters are at all developed - perhaps they just have a lot of informed traits. Ponyboy has faced many challenges in his life, but he always manages to overcome them. At least I assume we're still in Tulsa, OK since Ponyboy was there, and I'm pretty sure that's where The Outsiders was set. Its a great short read that will alter your soul.
What makes "That Was Then, This Is Now" a coming of age novel?
Seems like more than one person lost their mind. The story's great, the book's great but I will never forgive Bryon for what he did. Unfortunately, Mark is the unintended recipient of a bottle to the head. One night, Bryon and Mark pick up a drunk Angela Shepard, now married, who reminisces with them. Mark still just lives for the thrill of the moment.
That Was Then, This Is Now Chapter 11 Summary & Analysis
Minneapolis Star and Tribune. It underscores how Bryon has become an adult, capable of taking responsibility for his actions and of retaining humility, knowing that he might not have made all the right choices. Of course, the frankness and bold honesty over the years h It really is amazing to me that this author, a female, can get into the head of a male teenager, to such a degree that she so completely reveals his thoughts, his actions, his justifications, his excuses, etc. Bryon felt a sense of relief and happiness at the end of the story. And how awesome is it that Ponyboy makes a brief appearance in this? It is why I give it 5 Stars.
