Module 15: Censorship Issues

Forever... by Judy Blume

Blume, J. (1975). Forever.... New York: Simon Pulse.

Summary

When Katherine, a high school senior, meets Michael they are immediately drawn to each other. As they begin to date, their feelings quickly develop into love and they are soon inseparable. Although they have very strong feelings for each other and it is something neither has ever experienced, as the end of senior year approaches they must decide what the future of their relationship will be.

My Thoughts

Blume truly captures the essence of first love and being in a serious relationship for the first time. The intensity of the emotions and the desire to always be together is something that most high school students could relate to. Despite the fact that it has been over thirty years since its original publication, the experiences of Katherine and Michael are as easy to relate to today as they were back then. Their exploration into a sexual relationship as well as an emotional one is realistic and positive. They must deal with balancing friends, family and each other. This book could be used as an example of a more mature book that deals with important issues in a responsible way. Blume created a book that is a realistic representation of first love and I think many high school students could easily relate to the issues and experiences of the characters.

Review

Ages 15 to 18. More than thirty years ago, Judy Blume’s sensational teen romance debuted to much controversy. A candid account of young love that provides details about everything from a young couple’s first meeting through sexual curiosity, exploration, and activity, this book is as relevant for teens today as it was to teens in the seventies. From the moment Katherine and Michael meet at a friend’s party, the sparks fly. Although they attend different schools, the pair get together every chance they can, and their relationship deepens. Before long, things are getting serious: they are thinking about sex, talking about sex, and planning for sex. It feels like they will be together forever. Then, summer comes, and family plans pull them apart. They write each other often and plan to reunite as soon as they can, but life--and love--can be unexpected. While employed as a camp counselor, Katherine meets Theo. She is surprised by the attraction she feels for him. What do such feelings say about love? Commitment? Forever? Michael? Modern readers may giggle at the lack of cell phones and other modern accoutrements, but they are sure to be drawn into this time-tested tale of first love. Green, H.G. Children's Literature, 2007.