"That Was Then, This Is Now" is a coming-of-age novel by S.E. Hinton, the acclaimed author of "The Outsiders." The story is set in a working-class neighborhood in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and follows the lives of two teenage boys, Bryon and Mark, who are best friends and almost like brothers.
Bryon is a high school dropout who supports himself by hustling pool and taking care of his younger brother, Mark, who he rescued from an abusive home when they were kids. Mark, a tough and rebellious boy, is deeply loyal to Bryon and looks up to him. However, as they grow older, they start to drift apart and face different challenges.
As Bryon tries to find his path in life and make a better future for himself, he becomes more aware of the unfairness and cruelty of the world around him. Meanwhile, Mark gets involved in drugs and criminal activities, leading to a series of events that force Bryon to confront the hard truth about his friend and their changing relationship.
"That Was Then, This Is Now" delves into themes of growing up, identity, friendship, family, and the loss of innocence. It explores the complexities of teenage life, the impact of choices made, and the consequences of growing apart from someone you once considered family. Hinton's gritty and realistic writing style, along with her authentic portrayal of teenage struggles, has made this novel a timeless classic in young adult literature.
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