JUDY BLUME
Judy Blume, is the author of my favorite books in grade 5-7. Tiger eyes; Are You There God? Its me, Margaret; Then Again, Maybe I Wont; Deenie; It's Not The End of the World; and Iggie's House, are all coming of age stories of teen/pre-teens who have a challenge to over come, and begin to find who they are through the pain or confusion. I am writing about the author rather than the books because collectively, her books have made a lasting impression on me. The stories were relatable and they helped me with my own understanding of "growing pains". Her books make situations or feelings that young adults experience that may not seem "normal", a normal phenomena. I believe Judy Blume stands above so many authors in her genre because of her unwillingness to sugar-coat or sensor her books.
"I believe that censorship grows out of fear, and because fear is contagious, some parents are easily swayed. Book banning satisfies their need to feel in control of their children's lives. This fear is often disguised as moral outrage. They want to believe that if their children don't read about it, their children won't know about it. And if they don't know about it, it won't happen."
-Judy Blume
Here is a powerful post on her website where she addresses censorship of children's books:
THE POWER OF NOW
Author: Eckhart Tolle
I have read many books and when i choose books for myself I usually gravitate to the "coming of age" genre. My mother gifted this book to me about a year ago and it has by far been the most influential book I have yet to read. In a way, it is a coming-of-age through oneself. Eckhart Tolle is a phenomenal teacher of what life is about and how we should live it. I believe this because his philosophy is simply to live in the present moment. Although it is much easier said than done, applying this practice to my life has allowed me to see and feel reality and appreciate life in ways i couldn't experience with out having read his words. It is the one book i have ever read that i can genuinely say everyone can relate to.
It is now only $8.46 on amazon
THE FUNNY LITTLE WOMAN
Author: Arlene Mosel
In the 1st grade, my class had a a weekly, 1 hour library period to read and choose books to read through the rest of the week. This book was a 3.5 reading level and when I first read it I didn't understand or know all of the words. It was unusual for me to have that much difficulty understanding the meaning of a book but, it contained a lot of culture that I was unfamiliar with. So, the weeks following I remember reading this book over and over until I understood it's context. It is so prominent in my memory because it opened my mind to the challenge of difficult books. By the time I ended 2nd grade, I tested at a 6.5 grade reading level. It's an important reminder to me of how much your mind expands when you are willing to learn.
First of all, whose lives weren't partially shaped by Judy Blume? She was such significant present in many young readers lives so thank you for choosing her. I am very intrigued by your second book choice, The Power of Now. I think I will actually buy it off Amazon, the concept has really struck me and I would rather take your advice than waste my money on something that ended up being phony.
ReplyDeleteSo you've convinced me to read at least one Judy Blume. I like your story about "The Funny Little Woman" because it shows your persistence, even at such a young age.
ReplyDeleteAngelica,
ReplyDeleteI had heard of Judy Blume before, but only knew of her "Fudge" series. I was not aware that she wrote more serious books. Her stances on censorship and the banning of books are also very convincing. Your experience with The Funny Little Woman and accelerated growth as a reader are also very interesting.
Like everyone else above me, I must admit I read a couple of Judy Blume books growing up and I really enjoyed them. Its very clear to see that books were always a big part of your life which is actually pretty cool.
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