Before I Let Go

Kennedy Ryan has of her book, “There are some heavy topics here, which you might expect if you've read my books before. As usual, there is lots of emotion, but I don't want it to overshadow the joy, the laughter, the strong friendships and family bonds that are such a part of Yasmen and Josiah's journey.” What did you think of how the author balanced the heavy and difficult themes with the lighter and hopeful moments in the book? Did you find the tone and mood of the book consistent or jarring? Why or why not?

How did you feel about the author’s use of multiple perspectives in the book, as well as flashbacks? Did they enhance or confuse your reading experience? Why or why not?

How did the author portray the family dynamics and relationships in the book? Did you find them realistic and relatable? Why or why not?  Discuss both Yasmen and Josiah’s relationship with Byrd, as well as their relationship with their children, Deja and Kassim.  

Yasmen and Josiah continue to co-parent and are business partners after their divorce.  Have you ever been in a situation where you had to interact closely with an ex?  What were some of the challenges?  What do you think of how Yasmen and Josiah navigated the boundaries and expectations of their relationship?

In general, how did you relate to Yasmen and Josiah’s characters and their struggles? Did you find them sympathetic or frustrating? Why or why not?

How did therapy help Yasmen and Josiah heal and grow? Why did Josiah initially have resistance towards therapy and what helped him overcome it?  Why do you think the author made therapy such an integral part of their journey back to each other?

What did you think of Vashti and Mark?  How did their relationships with Joshiah and Yasmen respectively contrast with the relationship between Josiah and Yasmen?

How did you feel about the ending of the book? Did you find it satisfying or rushed? Why or why not?

An adaptation of “Before I Let Go” is under development.  Who would you cast in the leading roles?

This book is the first in Ryan’s new “Skyland” series, and future books will focus on Yasmen’s friends Soledad and Hendrix.  Whose love story are you most excited to read next?