Judy Blume is a past-master at communicating with teenagers over complex life issues that many other authors are wary of bringing in to their writing. She writes in a simple, straightforward and realistic style which every reader I’ve introduced to her writing absolutely loves. Deenie is a tale of courage and bravery: the chief protagonist will give every teenager the confidence to deal with any problem thrown at them. It’s a really great read and a book that teenagers will recommend to all their friends.We’ve also picked out one of Judy Blume’s other titles so why not try it too. It’s called Then Again, Maybe I Won't.
Being a teenager can be tricky. Especially when you have a VERY pushy mum. From the author of Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret, Judy Blume's classic novel Deenie is about unrealistic beauty standards and the pressure to look perfect.
I hate it when my mother brags about me and my sister. "Deenie's the beauty and Helen's the brain."
Mrs Fenner has very fixed ambitions for her daughters. Deenie is thirteen years old and gorgeous. Her mother wants her to be a model - but Deenie's not so sure.
So when she's diagnosed with scoliosis - curvature of the spine - Deenie's almost relieved. No more traipsing round modelling agencies, no more living up to her mother's expectations.
But she has to wear an ugly, uncomfortable back brace for the next four years. And she's convinced that it will put an end to normal teenage life - including her blossoming relationship with Buddy Brader . . .
Judy Blume spent her childhood in Elizabeth, New Jersey USA, making up stories inside her head. She has spent her adult years in many places, doing the same thing, only now she writes her stories down on paper. Adults as well as children will recognize such Blume titles as: Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret; Superfudge; Blubber; Just As Long As We're Together and Forever. She has also written the novels Wifey, Smart Women, and her latest, Summer Sisters, the New York Times No. 1 bestseller. More than 75 million copies of her books have been sold, and her work has been translated into twenty-something languages.
