How does Karen show bravery in this story? What makes her actions courageous?

This is a discussion prompt for Until Whatever by Martha Humphreys. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

Why do you think other students and Karen's mother reacted the way they did to Connie's illness?

This is a discussion prompt for Until Whatever by Martha Humphreys. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

Have you ever felt pressure to do something you knew was wrong, or to stop being friends with someone? How did you handle it?

This is a discussion prompt for Until Whatever by Martha Humphreys. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

What does this book teach us about empathy and understanding others?

This is a discussion prompt for Until Whatever by Martha Humphreys. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

How important is loyalty in a friendship? What does it mean to be a loyal friend?

This is a discussion prompt for Until Whatever by Martha Humphreys. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

Until Whatever by Martha Humphreys (Ages 12–17)

Name: Until Whatever
ISBN: 9780395580226

Until Whatever by Martha Humphreys (Ages 12–17) | Wonderlit

Wonderlit Review

Until Whatever presents a compelling and emotionally resonant narrative about friendship, illness, and social courage. The story centers on 17-year-old Karen, who chooses to rekindle her friendship with Connie, a classmate recently diagnosed with AIDS. This decision places Karen in direct conflict with the prevailing fears and prejudices of her community, including her peers, close friends, and even her own mother. The book effectively captures the social climate of the early 1990s regarding AIDS, making it a valuable historical piece for understanding the stigma associated with the disease. The book handles the sensitive topic of AIDS and social discrimination with a direct yet empathetic approach. It doesn't shy away from the realities of Connie's illness or the harsh judgment Karen faces, but it frames these challenges through the lens of unwavering friendship and moral integrity. The emotional arc is one of initial social tension and personal struggle, evolving into a powerful testament to loyalty and the quiet triumph of individual conviction over collective fear. This book is specifically for readers in middle school and early high school (ages 12-17) who are ready to engage with complex social issues and character-driven dilemmas. A parent might reach for this book when their child is grappling with peer pressure, witnessing discrimination, or seeking stories that model courage and empathy in difficult situations. It's also relevant for discussions about historical public health crises and their social impact. Parents should be prepared to discuss the historical context of AIDS, the misinformation that was prevalent, and the themes of discrimination and illness. While not graphic, the reality of Connie's condition and the social ostracization are central to the plot. Different ages will experience it differently: younger teens might focus on the friendship and peer pressure, while older teens might delve deeper into the societal implications and moral dilemmas. What makes this book different from others on similar topics is its specific focus on AIDS in a historical context, offering a nuanced portrayal of the fear and prejudice that existed. It emphasizes the quiet heroism of standing by a friend, rather than focusing solely on the illness itself, making it a powerful exploration of character and social responsibility.

Until Whatever

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