Audiobook Review: Okay for Now (Grades 5-9)

Okay for Now
Gary Schmidt
Narrated by Lincoln Hoppe

Doug Swieteck copes with his family's poverty, his dad's abuse, a new school, learning to draw, a mean librarian and a meaner PE "teacher," his brother coming home from Vietnam, and the cops figuring he is a thug. Doug also experiences his first kiss, a fantastic librarian, the artistry of John James Audubon, some fabulous teachers, a wonderful part-time job, and more—"I'm not lying"—truly great things. Love it!

The narrator actually doesn't change his voice for each character, but somehow he makes them all distinct. I swear I can hear him smiling sometimes. Other times, I could hear the tears way in the background.

Submitted by Lynn Carpenter
Five Points West Library

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