Dickens & Rumi
Cover of OKAY FOR NOW

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OKAY FOR NOW

Gary D. Schmidt

In 1968, a boy finds friendship in upstate New York.

Ages 12+Source checked

Why this age? Best suited to middle-grade readers able to handle family conflict, bullying, illiteracy, war injuries and emotional recovery, alongside hopeful themes and a mild crush. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age12+

Strongest cautions

  • Violence3/5
  • Alcohol or drugs2/5
  • Frightening scenes2/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Good role models4/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character1/5
Why this rating?

Death is not a central plot point, though the war context involves loss.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

References to wartime injuries and the physical aftermath of abuse are mentioned but not described in graphic detail.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Contains some mild profanity and instances of bullying-related insults.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Features a subtle, age-appropriate crush between Doug and Lil.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

The primary tension stems from an volatile and abusive home environment.

Alcohol or drugs2/5
Why this rating?

Characters are shown drinking alcohol in the context of the adult world.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Includes descriptions of domestic abuse by a father and mentions of war-related violence.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Doug faces prejudice, academic difficulty, family problems and war-related trauma with growing resilience and constructive action.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Drawing and close study of Audubon's birds are central creative outlets that build Doug's confidence and connection with others.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Touches on socio-economic struggles and the experience of veterans.

Educational value3/5
Why this rating?

Reading recovery, drawing, Audubon's art, science, literature and the Vietnam War contribute substantial learning content.

Kindness & empathy4/5
Why this rating?

Mentorship and practical support help Doug, Lucas and others; compassion and community are central to the resolution.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong themes of redemption, empathy, the importance of education, and overcoming adversity.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

Mentors and teachers serve as positive role models for the protagonist.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. How did the story handle conflict or violence? Did the characters have other choices?
  3. Which choice in OKAY FOR NOW would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in OKAY FOR NOW, and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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