A Conversation with Judy Blume

No author for young people is more iconic than Judy Blume, whose books have helped millions of teens grow up. Titles like Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret and Then Again, Maybe I Won’t let readers know that their secret thoughts and worries were normal. Because Judy writes about topics that many adults are unwilling to talk about, young people continue to see her as confessor, confidante, and friend.

Tune in to hear Judy talk about how she got her start and learned the craft of writing from her long-time editor, Dick Jackson; what it’s like returning to her hometown of Elizabeth, New Jersey, which is the setting for her current novel; and how she’s responded to the many parodies and tributes that seal her place in popular culture.

After listening to this episode, be sure to print out this list of recommended titles to take to the library or book seller.

Books mentioned in this episode:

• Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret (1971)
• Then Again, Maybe I Won’t (1972)