That was then, this is now
by S. E. Hinton
Nelson 1989
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 4.6 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
Themes include substance abuse
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- loyalty and betrayal
- coming of age
- choices and consequences
- identity
- substance abuse
- morality
- change and growing apart
About this book
Bryon and Mark have grown up like brothers on the tough side of town, but as Bryon starts to change—new friends, a job, and first love—their once-close bond is tested. When drugs and violence move closer to their lives, Bryon faces hard choices about loyalty and right and wrong. Honest and gritty, this coming-of-age story invites thoughtful discussion about consequences and the moment when childhood ends. Ideal for teens ready for mature themes and realistic situations.
Setting: urban Tulsa, Oklahoma, late 1960s
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is That was then, this is now right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for That was then, this is now. The reading level is AR 4.6, which is typical for 4th grade. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 14+ (9th–12th grade). Themes include friendship, loyalty and betrayal, coming of age.
How long does it take to read That was then, this is now?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, That was then, this is now takes around 4.3h to finish. The book has 39,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does That was then, this is now have an AR quiz?
Yes — That was then, this is now has an AR quiz available, worth 5 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is That was then, this is now?
That was then, this is now has an AR reading level of 4.6, which places it at a 4th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.