Judy Blume is a beloved and prolific author whose books have been cherished by readers of all ages for decades. From her relatable characters to her honest and often controversial topics, Blume has captured the hearts and minds of generations of readers. But what do we really know about the woman behind the words? In a revealing new biography, author Mark Oppenheimer delves into Blume’s childhood, her biggest controversies, and more.
Born in Elizabeth, New Jersey in 1938, Judy Blume was the youngest of three children. Her parents, Esther and Ralph Sussman, were both working parents who instilled a love of reading in their children from a young age. Blume’s early years were filled with books and writing, as she would often create her own stories and poems.
As a child, Blume was an avid reader and dreamed of becoming a writer. However, her parents were not supportive of her aspirations and encouraged her to pursue a more practical career. Despite this, Blume remained determined and continued to write throughout her youth. It wasn’t until she was a young mother that she finally pursued her dream of becoming an author.
Blume’s first book, “The One in the Middle is the Green Kangaroo,” was published in 1969. Since then, she has written over 30 books that have sold over 85 million copies worldwide. Her books cover a wide range of topics, from puberty and teenage angst to divorce and bullying. Blume’s writing is known for its honesty and relatability, making her a favorite among young readers.
One of Blume’s biggest controversies came with the publication of her book “Forever” in 1975. The novel, which deals with teenage sexuality, was met with backlash from conservative parents and educators who deemed it inappropriate for young readers. Blume stood her ground and defended the book, stating that she wrote it for young people who were curious about sex but lacked reliable information.
Despite the controversy, “Forever” became one of Blume’s most popular books, resonating with young readers who saw themselves and their own experiences reflected in the characters. It also opened up a dialogue about sex and relationships among teens, which was considered taboo at the time.
In his biography, Oppenheimer also delves into Blume’s personal life, including her two marriages and her battle with breast cancer. Blume’s first marriage, to John Blume, ended in divorce after 17 years. She later married attorney Thomas Kitchens, with whom she has two children.
In 2012, Blume was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a mastectomy and reconstruction surgery. She bravely shared her experience with the public, shedding light on the importance of early detection and treatment. Blume has since become an advocate for breast cancer awareness and has raised funds for research through her organization, the Judy Blume Foundation.
Throughout her career, Blume has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to literature. In 1996, she was awarded the Margaret A. Edwards Award for her significant and lasting contribution to young adult literature. In 2004, she was named a Living Legend by the Library of Congress. And in 2020, Blume was awarded the National Book Foundation’s Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters.
At 83 years old, Blume continues to inspire readers with her writing and her unwavering dedication to telling stories that matter. In his biography, Oppenheimer provides an intimate look into the life of this beloved author, shedding light on her childhood, her writing process, and her impact on readers around the world.
In conclusion, Mark Oppenheimer’s biography on Judy Blume is a must-read for anyone who has been touched by her books. It offers a glimpse into the life of this remarkable woman and sheds light on the inspiration behind some of her most beloved stories. Blume’s honesty, relatability, and dedication to her craft have made her a literary icon, and Oppenheimer’s biography celebrates her legacy in a heartfelt and meaningful way.
