What Judy Blume’s Books Revealed About Womanhood

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As women navigate the formative experiences of adolescence—first periods, first bras, first kisses—there is a significant rite of passage that often goes unacknowledged: the initial encounter with Judy Blume’s Forever…. As a bookish and somewhat awkward pre-teen, I devoured Blume’s works, from Superfudge to Blubber and Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret. However, Forever… remained elusive, reserved for older readers, as my sister, who owned a well-worn copy, informed me.

With its cover depicting a contemplative girl equipped with newfound sexual awareness, I felt compelled to discover what made this book so “grown-up.” At the age of twelve, I clandestinely borrowed my sister’s copy, reading it under the covers with a flashlight—an act that became a nightly ritual. I was particularly drawn to the scene depicting intimacy between Michael and Kath, returning to it multiple times. Eventually, I grew concerned about returning the book, so I discreetly disposed of it in the school cafeteria trash.

Through Forever…, I learned foundational lessons about sexuality: the importance of protection to avoid sexually transmitted infections, the quirky habit of naming body parts, and the poignant advice from Kath’s mother that “you can’t go back to holding hands.” Blume’s other works also imparted significant insights:

• In Iggie’s House, I learned that the end of a friendship can feel devastating but is survivable, and that casual racism pervades our surroundings.
• Blubber illustrated that some of my classmates engage in gross behaviors, such as saving boogers.
• Deenie introduced the term for “touching your special place,” normalizing discussions around bodily autonomy.
• In Starring Sally J. Freedman As Herself, I faced the reality of being a potential source of lice and the unsettling notion that historical figures like Hitler could be near me.
• Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret. revealed that not all girls dread their first periods—some eagerly await them—and that menstruation does not signal the end of childhood.
• Then Again, Maybe I Won’t exposed me to the complexities of male adolescence, including erections and wet dreams.
• Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing taught me that not all younger siblings are charming; adorability is fleeting.
• Otherwise Known As Sheila the Great highlighted the reality of girl-on-girl cruelty, but also the possibility of reconciliation.
• Finally, It’s Not the End of the World reassured me during tough times, particularly around divorce, emphasizing that life continues despite challenges.

In summary, Judy Blume’s novels provided invaluable lessons about growing up, relationships, and self-acceptance. They not only educated me on the physical aspects of womanhood but also offered insights into the emotional complexities that accompany these changes. For more information on related topics, consider visiting resources like the Center for Reproductive Health or explore the home insemination kit for further guidance. For privacy concerns, please refer to our privacy policy.