Before You Go [Paperback]

The summer before his senior year, Jude (yes, he's named after the Beatles song) gets his first job, falls in love for the first time, and starts to break away from his parents. Jude's house is kept dark, and no one talks muchit's been that way since his little sister drowned in a swimming pool seven years ago when Jude was supposed to be watching her.

Now, Jude is finally, finally starting to live.Reallylive. And then, life spins out of control. Again.

Acclaimed author James Preller explores life, death, love, faith, and resilience in his first young adult novel.Before You Gowill grip readers from the book's dramatic first few pages to its emotional end.

1. The author begins the story with a pivotal moment in the characters' lives. Why do you think he chose to place this scene at the start of the novel?

2. Out of all the people working at the Jones Beach concession stands, why do you think Jude is drawn to Becka when he first meets her?

3. Corey is funny and extroverted; Jude is more serious. What do you think makes Corey and Jude such good friends?
4. Jude is a runner; his dad is a runner. Why do you think the author chose this? What does each
character get from running?
5. Something terrible has happened to Jude in his past, and something terrible happens to him again. What do you believe Jude's future holds? Will he be okay?

James Preller is the author of several picture books and novels, includingA Pirate's Guide to First Grade, Six Innings,andBystander.Before You Gois his first work for young adults. He lives in Delmar, New York.

Preller makes us care about these people. We wonder about them when they're gone. The New York Times

The author strikes the right tone in capturing Jude's inner struggles with grief, angst and love. Kirkus Reviews

Will hook readers. Booklist