LibraryNinja Book Reviews

Sneaking around libraries and netgalley to bring you the freshest takes on fiction.

Judy Blume, A Life- Mark Oppenheimer

published 3/10/26

It’s hard to describe what an author means to you, especially one as important as Judy Blume. For GenX readers like myself, she was our version of the gospel of growing up and going through puberty as a young girl. She didn’t sugar coat it and she made it so relatable that for gals like me, without a mother, I understood what to expect.

This book dives deep into Blume’s background- from early childhood through the dozens of rejection letters she faced until the publication and widespread story Iggie’s House in 1970. What followed was a series of incredible books that tackled serious issues that were practically forbidden to talk about- sex, puberty, body image, family trouble. One of the best books I have ever read is Summer Sisters, published in 1998.

If you’re looking for a well-annotated, deep dive into Judy’s work and life, this book is for you.

Thank you to GP Putnam for allowing me to read an advanced copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. What a privilege it was to read this book- especially since her work has been transformative in my own life.

#JudyBlumeALife #GPPutnam #NetGalley #libraryninja

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