Okay for Now

Doug Swieteck’s life is a mess: an abusive dad, a thug reputation, and a family name that makes small-town life even smaller. He’s the kid everyone’s ready to give up on—except maybe the snarky redhead Lil, a snooty librarian, and a few Audubon bird plates in the local library. With humor and heartbreak, Doug wrestles with bullies, family trauma, and the long shadows of Vietnam, all while discovering that art, books, and a fiery friend just might be the wings he needs to rise above the chaos. Okay for Now is what happens when you mix gritty realism with surprising moments of grace—and a Broadway chicken suit for good measure.

Who Will Love This Book:

This book is perfect for readers who enjoy layered coming-of-age stories where resilience is forged through humor, hope, and a little rebellion. If you loved The Outsiders or The Perks of Being a Wallflower, but you’d appreciate a lighter touch with plenty of laughs alongside the tears, this one’s for you. It’s especially suited to those who appreciate historical settings (hello, 1960s vibes), stories that honor the healing power of art and books, or protagonists who have a tough exterior but a secretly tender heart. Teens figuring out their place in the world—or adults who remember what it’s like—will find a kindred spirit in Doug Swieteck.