In the journey of young womanhood, certain milestones like the first period, first bra, and first kiss are typically celebrated. However, there’s another significant experience that often goes unacknowledged: the first reading of Forever… by Judy Blume. As an awkward, book-loving pre-teen, I devoured Blume’s collection, including Superfudge, Blubber, and Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret. Yet, one particular book eluded my grasp—Forever….
My older sister possessed a dog-eared paperback of Forever…, featuring a cover image of a girl with a contemplative expression, embodying the weight of newfound sexual knowledge. “This book is far too mature for you,” she declared, as though she had ascended to a higher plane of wisdom, leaving me in my youthful ignorance.
Naturally, I was compelled to uncover the ‘forbidden’ content of Forever…. At the age of twelve, I secretly borrowed my sister’s copy and read it—tradition dictated that I do so under the covers with a flashlight. The scene where Michael and Kath engage in intimacy became a nightly ritual for me. Eventually, I feared that returning the book would be too risky, so I discreetly disposed of it in the school cafeteria trash.
Forever… imparted much of what I know about sexuality: the importance of using protection to avoid STDs, the peculiar habit some individuals have of naming their genitals, and the motherly wisdom that “you can’t go back to holding hands.” However, Blume’s entire oeuvre offered invaluable lessons. As we celebrate her 77th birthday, let’s revisit some enduring insights.
Iggie’s House
The end of a friendship may feel catastrophic, yet it’s merely a transition, and instances of casual racism are prevalent everywhere.
Blubber
Even the boy next to me in class engages in the peculiar habit of picking his nose and hoarding the results on a piece of notebook paper.
Deenie
There is an actual term for “touching your special place,” a revelation that was both enlightening and awkward.
Starring Sally J. Freedman As Herself
It’s perfectly fine to be the instigator of a lice epidemic (thanks for that, Camp Laurelwood), and sometimes, your neighbors may turn out to be surprisingly notorious figures.
Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret.
While I dreaded getting my period, I learned some girls eagerly anticipated it. Moreover, receiving your period doesn’t signal the definitive end of childhood or life.
Then Again, Maybe I Won’t
Erections and wet dreams are part of the adolescent experience, even for those boys who seem preoccupied with other, less savory habits.
Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing
Not every hyperactive younger sibling is as charming as I believed; it’s a reminder that cuteness is often fleeting.
Otherwise Known As Sheila the Great
Girls can exhibit unkind behavior towards each other (the infamous “slam book” comes to mind), but they are also capable of forgiveness and moving forward.
It’s Not the End of the World
Reflecting on divorce, this book introduced me to a phrase that has become oddly comforting in its cliché perspective.
In conclusion, Judy Blume’s works provide more than mere entertainment; they offer lessons in navigating the complexities of womanhood and interpersonal relationships. For those considering family planning and seeking resources on home insemination, check out this excellent guide. Additionally, for insights into fertility, this resource on fertility boosters for men is beneficial. For comprehensive information about pregnancy itself, visit this informative site.
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