Contact

Saturday, April 22, 2023

Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret by Judy Blume

Margaret shares her secrets and her spirituality in this iconic Judy Blume novel, beloved by millions, that now has a fresh new look.

Margaret Simon, almost twelve, likes long hair, tuna fish, the smell of rain, and things that are pink. She's just moved from New York City to Farbook, New Jersey, and is anxious to fit in with her new friends--Nancy, Gretchen, and Janie. When they form a secret club to talk about private subjects like boys, bras, and getting their first periods, Margaret is happy to belong.

But none of them can believe Margaret doesn't have religion, and that she isn't going to the Y or the Jewish Community Center. What they don't know is Margaret has her own very special relationship with God. She can talk to God about everything--family, friends, even Moose Freed, her secret crush.

Margaret is funny and real, and her thoughts and feelings are oh-so-relatable--you'll feel like she's talking right to you, sharing her secrets with a friend.

Hardcover, 192 pages
Published April 29, 2014
 by Turtleback Books
3.5/5 stars

This book was a quick and easy read, clocking in just under 200 pages. It was also my first time reading a Judy Blume book. The winner of several mini awards, this book was published in 1970 and is a unique blend of middle grade and young adult coming-of-age story.

The protagonist, Margaret Simon, is almost 12 years old and has recently moved from bustling New York City to a smaller town in New Jersey. As she navigates her new school and surroundings, she finds solace in a secret club where she can discuss all things girlish with her new friends.

Are You There, God? It's Me, Margaret is a heartwarming tale of friendship, self-discovery, and family. As the title suggests, Margaret is not religious and is curious about the concept of faith, thus exploring different churches.

While I personally found the book to be just okay, I can see how it would be a fun and engaging read for younger readers. 

This book is part of my 2023 Reading Off My Shelf Challenge, #23.

No comments:

Post a Comment