Then Again, Maybe I Won't (1978) Parents Guide: Is the book OK for kids?

The protagonist, thirteen-year-old Tony, experiences significant sexual awakening and curiosity throughout the novel. A primary plot point involves Tony using binoculars to watch his teenage neighbor, Lisa, undress through her bedroom window on multiple occasions. Tony describes the physical reactions his body has to these sights, specifically mentions of erections and the occurrence of a wet dream in chapter eight. While the descriptions are not graphic, the voyeuristic behavior is central to Tony's internal…

Violence in the book is minimal and primarily non-physical, focusing instead on delinquent behavior and psychological distress. Tony's friend, Joel, engages in serial shoplifting, including items like golf balls and cologne, which creates a sense of impending trouble. There are moments of intense anxiety where Tony's 'nervous stomach' causes him to physically collapse or feel ill, specifically when he witnesses Joel's theft in chapter ten. A brief physical scuffle occurs earlier in the book between siblings, but…

The language is consistent with 1970s middle-grade literature and is generally mild by modern standards. There are no heavy profanities or explicit slurs, though characters use mild insults like 'stupid,' 'jerk,' and 'rat.' Tony's brother Ralph uses somewhat cynical language when discussing his move from teaching to a corporate career, reflecting the family's shifting values. The narrative is told through Tony's internal monologue, which uses straightforward, conversational vocabulary to express his frustrations…

Substance use is limited to brief mentions of underage drinking and adult social habits. Tony's friend Joel admits to drinking alcohol, specifically mentions of stealing sips of liquor to act out against his father's strict expectations. At family gatherings or dinners, the adults are depicted having drinks, which is portrayed as a normal part of their new upper-middle-class social life. Tony remains entirely uninvolved in these activities, acting as a cautious observer of Joel's increasingly risky behavior. The…

Core themes include the psychological stress of newfound wealth and the pressure to conform to new social classes. After the Miglione family moves to Rosemont, Tony struggles with the changing relationship between his parents and his grandmother, who feels displaced by a hired maid. The book heavily explores the transition from childhood to the teenage years, focusing on the loss of innocence and the development of a moral compass. Tony’s 'nervous stomach' serves as a physical manifestation of his internal…