When a close friend of theirs, Charlie, is killed while saving their lives, Byon begins to question many of his thoughts and actions. Bryon begins to think that hings didn't have to be the way they were for him and Mark. He begins to constantly question, "what if..." and this bothers Mark, who never analyzes things, but instead simply lives life accepting whatever it brought. When Bryon becomes involved with Cathy, a decent girl different from all the others Bryon has ever known, their friendship begins to dissolve. Things change even more after this, because Bryon seriously begins to question who he wants to be. He gets a job and decides that picking fights and taking revenge on people is infantile. When he discovers a terrible secret about Mark, he faces a decision which changes every aspect of his life forever.
S.E. Hinton's use of language and dialogue truly brings the characters to life in this book. The story is told through the main character's point of view, and the reader is able to see through his eyes the many things that make him question his way of living. Readers will continue to enjoy reading this gripping story which deals with themes such as friendship, loyalty, coming of age, drugs, and gangs. What may have a strong impact on young adult readers, however, is the way in which the main character's life becomes more and more complicated as he grows up. This aspect distinguishes S.E. Hinton's books from all others dealing with maturity. Typically, readers encounter stories where teenagers' lives are complicated and everything becomes easier as they mature. In this case, Bryon feels that his life is more complicated than ever now that he truly begins to care about people. Young adult readers may learn that although their lives seem complex now, there are even bigger challenges coming their way; the results of which may not always be in their favor.
Hinton, S.E. 1971. That was then, this is now. Puffin Books. ISBN 0-14-038966-0.
