First published in 1970, Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret is a groundbreaking, frank, and realistic, coming-of-age novel by Judy Blume. Centered on Margaret Simon and set against the backdrop of her family's move from New York City to the New Jersey suburbs, it provides a nuanced exploration of early adolescent anxieties and the quest for identity amidst the complex web of social, religious, and physiological changes.
Margaret, at the brink of adolescence, grapples with universal themes of belonging, faith, and the onset of puberty. Her parents' interfaith marriage has left her without a clear religious identity, fostering a deeply personal and questioning relationship with God. This, coupled with her interactions with new friends and the inevitable experiences of growing up, including discussions on boys, bras, and menstruation, propels Margaret on a journey of self-discovery and coming to terms with her individuality.
The narrative dives deep into Margaret's internal dialogue and her candid petitions to God, capturing the intricacies of her thoughts and feelings with unparalleled authenticity and sensitivity. Through the formation of a secret club with her peers and the exploration of religious traditions, the novel delves into the universal drive to find one's place in the world. Margaret's experiences reflect a profound navigation through the landscapes of faith, familial ties, and the perennial quest for acceptance and understanding.
Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret has left an indelible mark on generations, celebrated for its honest portrayal of a young girl's inner life and its pioneering approach to previously taboo subjects. The book has garnered acclaim and sparked discussions, earning a place in TIME magazine’s 100 Best YA Books of All Time and facing challenges for its candid discussions of menstruation and religion. Its enduring relevance and Blume's sincere narrative voice continue to resonate, making it a beloved classic of young adult literature. The novel inspired a film adaptation released in 2023, highlighting its ongoing impact on popular culture as well as its pivotal role in literature.
More like this
About the author
Judy Blume
Judy Blume is an acclaimed American author who writes for children, young adults, and adults. She has written more than 25 novels, including Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret (1970), Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing (1972), Deenie (1973), and Blubber (1974). Her stories often center on controversial topics such as puberty, sexuality, and familial issues, making her one of the pioneering authors in young adult literature to tackle such subjects. Her works have sold more than 82 million copies worldwide and have been translated into 32 languages.
Blume was born in 1938 in Elizabeth, New Jersey, and earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from New York University. Over her career, she has been the recipient of numerous accolades including the Margaret A. Edwards Award for Lifetime Achievement from the American Library Association in 1996 and the Distinguished Contribution to American Letters Medal from the National Book Foundation in 2004. Her books have also faced significant censorship challenges over the decades, marking Blume among the most challenged authors of the 21st century, according to the American Library Association.
Apart from her writing, Judy Blume has been an active advocate for intellectual freedom, fighting against the censorship of books. She co-founded the National Coalition Against Censorship and has served on the boards of various literary organizations. In recent years, Blume, together with her husband George Cooper, has turned her focus to philanthropy and community service, particularly in the area of literacy. They reside on islands up and down the East Coast and have three grown children and one grandchild. In 2018, they opened a nonprofit bookstore, Books & Books, in Key West, Florida.
Judy Blume's literary achievements and contributions to fostering a love of reading among millions have left an indelible mark on American literature. Her work continues to inspire new generations of readers and writers alike. As of 2020, the Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library at Yale University safeguards a significant collection of her papers, signaling the long-lasting impact of her work on American culture and literature.
More from Judy Blume
Members get even more
Pick 1 audiobook a month
Choose any title you want from our unmatched collection—including bestsellers and new releases. This is yours to keep.
Thousands of included titles
Listen all you want to thousands of included audiobooks and Originals with celebs you love and emerging talent.
Deals & discounts
Get in on exclusive sales and deals, and when you can't wait for your next credit, use your member discount on any title.