Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret (1970)

Classic Judy Blume relatable story of childhood and growing up mentally and physically. Margaret is every girl in sixth grade. I am reading through a list of banned books, and this one, surprisingly, is often banned. Slow down, Karen. Your daughter doesn't need Judy Blume to tell her about garters and bras and boys. Likewise, your son already experiences girls like Margaret every day. ( )

Not what my parents would have wanted me to read, but everyone else was reading it. The one book I read by peer pressure. Not bad, but not my typical style either. Funny, I married a man who is still the BIGGEST Judy Blume fan. ( )

I first read this book in sixth grade. I devoured it. Judy Blume has a way of writing that resonates with children. When I had my daughters I bought this book for them and we read it together. It was a wonderful way to discuss topics that were not the easiest to bring up. Now I have granddaughters and the book will be read again. My daughter has said she plans to read it and discuss it with her daughter just as I did with her. Times have changed but the issues that Margaret faced are still being faced today. This is a wonderful book that I revisit on days when I feel like going back in time. ( )

I wish I had read this book when I was younger. I didn't read it until a few years ago, but I absolutely loved it. This is a children's/young adult book about a girl who comes from a half Jewish, half Christian family, so I saw myself represented in her and the issues that she deals with, not just on the religious side and the family side, but just the normal growing up as a 12 year old. I really enjoyed it and connected with it so much. ( )

Great for readers of any age but especially middle school aged readers. A coming of age novel that showcases what a preteen may be experiencing and feeling as they enter puberty and body changes, the world of boys, friendships and friendship drama, and family life. It is informational but in an entertaining way.

For more on Judy Blume and her novels see... https://judyblume.com/judy-blume-books/middle-books/middle-margaret/ ( )