Then Again, Maybe I Won't

by Judy Blume
Then Again, Maybe I Won't cover
Good Books rating 3.93
Young Adult (YA)
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Paperback • £8.99
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  • ID: 6990
  • Added: 2025-12-08
  • Updated: 2025-12-13
  • ISBN: 9781509806256
  • Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  • Published: 2016-05-19
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Then Again, Maybe I Won't is a classic coming-of-age story from Judy Blume, the author of Are You There, God? It's Me, Margaret. The novel follows Tony Miglione, a thirteen-year-old boy whose life changes dramatically when his father's invention makes them rich. They move from a cramped house in New Jersey to a luxury home on Long Island, but the newfound wealth brings its own set of challenges. Tony's grandma feels useless, his mum is obsessed with impressing the neighbours, and Tony starts to suffer from anxiety attacks. The only bright spot is his neighbour Lisa, who keeps undressing with the light on./n/nAs Tony tries to adjust to his new life, he realizes that being rich isn't all it's cracked up to be. The boy next door isn't as perfect as he seems, and Tony wishes everything would just go back to normal. The story explores the complexities of growing up and the impact of sudden wealth on a family.

Reviews
Plugged In · 2025-12-08
sensitive 4.00

The book addresses the anxieties of life on Long Island and the increasing concern with appearances and social standing. The reviewer finds it a sensitive and humorous exploration of coming of age.

This review focuses on the book's portrayal of the anxieties faced by the protagonist, Tony, as he navigates life on Long Island. The reviewer notes the increasing concern with appearances and social standing, which adds depth to the story. They appreciate the book's sensitive and humorous treatment of the coming-of-age experience, making it a relatable and enjoyable read. The reviewer also highlights the book's ability to address serious issues in a lighthearted manner, which adds to its appeal.

Quick quotes

    Overall, life on Long Island makes Tony anxious.

    Mom becomes increasingly concerned with appearances and social standing.

    This is a wonderful, sensitive and humorous book which carefully describes the coming of age of young boys.

The Storygraph · 2025-12-08
impactful 4.00

The story is great and would have been even more impactful if read during pre-teen years. It reassures readers that they are not alone in their experiences.

The reviewer wishes they had read this book during their pre-teen years, as they believe it would have been incredibly impactful. They highlight the book's ability to reassure readers that they are not alone in their experiences, especially during the challenging time of puberty. The reviewer praises the book's relatable content and its ability to address important issues in a way that resonates with young readers.

Quick quotes

    What a great story; I wish I had read it as a pre-teen, I would have gotten so much out of it.

    Just the idea that you are not alone as puberty hits, or how ...

    All of it was urgent and mysterious and not-something-I-could-talk-about.

Goodreads · 1971-01-01
insightful 3.80

The book is frank and explores puberty and anxiety, but it's unfortunate that it's the last of Judy Blume's books available. The reviewer found it insightful but wished there were more.

This review highlights the book's frank exploration of puberty and anxiety, noting that it's a valuable read for young adults. However, the reviewer expresses disappointment that it's the last of Judy Blume's books they have access to. They appreciate the book's honesty and the way it addresses complex issues, but they wish there were more books like this available. The reviewer also mentions that the book has aged well and remains relevant.

Quick quotes

    This is quite a frank book, exploring puberty, anxiety, appearances being deceptive etc.

    Unfortunately this is the last of the Judy Blume books that I had set ...

    I would have gotten so much out of it.

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