Journalist Mark Oppenheimer will discuss his long-awaited biography of cherished author Judy Blume. For over fifty-five years (including a string of 1970s novels, Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret; Forever, etc.) Blume revolutionized the literary landscape for young people, offering candid, socially realistic stories devoid of preachy moralism. Millions of readers have immersed themselves in the lives of characters grappling with ordinary vulnerabilities, and growing pains: sibling rivalry, menstrual periods, parental divorce, the stirrings of sexual desire. But until now, the story of the real woman behind the iconic persona has not been told. Oppenheimer’s buoyant biography traces Blume’s life from her 1950s childhood in a secular Jewish home in New Jersey, through marriages, children, divorce, and remarriage, to her ambitions to become a unique literary successor to Dr. Seuss. The book abounds with insights into the publishing process, Blume’s popular reception (generally positive, sometimes critical), and her legacy as a champion of free speech. While Blume happily participated in Oppenheimer’s research and writing process, she has since distanced herself from the final publication—adding a layer of complexity to her biographical narrative. For anyone who grew up loving these remarkable books, Oppenheimer’s volume is an enlightening, inspiring read.
The program will include an audience Q&A and hardcover books will be available for purchase. Please note: participants do not have to read the book to attend this lecture.
About the author: Mark Oppenheimer is the author of four critically acclaimed books, including Squirrel Hill, Wisenheimer, and Thirteen and a Day. He has taught at NYU, Stanford, Yale, and Washington University in St. Louis, where he is Professor of Practice. Mark lives with his family in New Haven, Connecticut.
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