Judy Blume - Wonderful Woman No. 90

Judy Blume - Born 1938
American Author

Added to the album by Natalie, A Wonderful Woman

Her books taught me a lot when I was growing up... every girl (and boy) growing up should read Judy Blume books.
Natalie

Good call!
Gemma, Another Wonderful Woman

I must admit that I have never read a Judy Blume book myself, though I have heard many women of my generation speak of her and of how her books played a significant educational narrative to their teenage years. In particular, my wonderful friend Andrea has mentioned on many occasions how these stories were of importance in the transition from childhood to womanhood.

In total, Judy wrote almost thirty books over five decades. Her stories tackled controversial issues, in particular those affecting teenagers. She wrote about the troubles of adolescence, menstration and masturbation, about sex, relationships and love, there were stories about racism and other prejudices, about divorce, bullying and religion.

Her books were often critisised due to their content and suitability for young readers. They created discussion and debate and faced censorship a number of times. This censorship lead to Judy joining the National Coalition Against Censorship, believing that there must always be freedom in literature.

Her books have been successful internationally and she has won many awards for her writing, including the Library of Congress Living Legends award in the Writers and Artists category for her significant contributions to America's cultural heritage.

For her services to anxious teenagers everywhere, Judy really is a wonderful woman.

It's not just the books under fire now that worry me. It is the books that will never be written. The books that will never be read. And all due to the fear of censorship. As always, young readers will be the real losers.
Judy Blume