Product Description
THE PAIN AND the Great One are going places! In these new stories the kids are on the go—the Pain needs a trip to the emergency room; the family goes to the mall and not everyone stays together; the kids visit a county fair and want to ride the Super Slide; and a beach outing includes a boogie board. Lots more action and adventure for the dynamic duo who never stay still.


From the Hardcover edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Going, Going, Gone! with the Pain and the Great One
Any of these books that "Judy Blume" wrote about the brother and sister duo is hilarious. I have two children and definately the little brother is "the Pain" and the "Great One" is the big sister. I read these to my children when they were little and now they are grown parents and I knew they each had to have a copy for their children. They both "laugh and love" these stories bringing back "great childhood times" from this fabulous author. We have bought all the series. The first one is just called "THE PAIN AND THE GREAT ONE." Parents, go to the library or just trust me, and read or buy these to get some " good clean happy times of your childrens' growth". They are a "treasure" as all of Judy Blumes books are. Thank you to Mrs. Blume for finding "good, happy, wholesome, humerous, and worthwhile" areas to write on for our children and ourselves as parents."
:Thanks to Judy." Elizabeth

More great hahahhahaha moments with the Great one and the Pain!
Jake just knew Mom and Dad loved his stupid sister Abigail, otherwise known as the "Great One," better than him.That was a fact.He was six-years-old and any first grader with a sister like that needed a lot of sympathy.

Abigail just knew Mom and Dad loved her dorky brother Jake, otherwise known as the "Pain," better than her.That was a fact.She was eight-years-old and any third grader with a brother like that needed a lot of sympathy.

When Aunt Diana took them to the country fair, the Pain had to pee big time.It cost the Great one six tickets to ask a couple of extortionists to hold their place (which they didn't) while she took the Pain to the Porta Potties."I can't wait" the Pain cried. Then when the Pain was playing with his friends Justin and Dylan they decided putting pussy willows up their noses would be great fun.Now that little stunt with the furry booger ended up in the ER.Waaaaah!It's always something with the Great One and the Pain!

I just love the madcap adventures of the Great One and the Pain!Even Fluzzy the cat got into the act in this book.Every time this brother and sister get together you're going to find a lot of hahahahahaha moments for sure, even though to this pair things are quite serious.Did I tell you about their misadventure in the mall?I bet you can't guess who got into trouble there, but if you are familiar with the Great one and the Pain, perhaps you can guess!

A great CD for a trip
Our 6 and 8 year old children eagerly look forward to releases of "The Pain and The Great One" cds. They can really relate to the stories. No childhood secrets are ruined (like in Tales of a 4th Grade Nothing), but the stories are very realistic and the emotions are, too. ... Read more

Product Description
MEET THE PAIN:
My sister's name is Abigail. I call her The Great One because she thinks she's so great. Who cares if she's in third grade and I'm just in first?

MEET THE GREAT ONE:
My brother's name is Jacob Edward, but everyone calls him Jake. Everyone but me. I call him The Pain because that's what he is. He's a first-grade pain. I'll always know exactly what he's thinking. That's just the way it is.

These seven warm-hearted stories will give readers a peek at how a brother and sister relate to each other.


From the Hardcover edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

My niece loves it
This was a birthday gift for my niece, who just started reading her first chapter books. She told me she loves this series and was excited to own her own copy of the first book as well as the additional chapter book I got her later in the series.

True to life sibling dynamics
My 5 year old simply loved reading (yes she reads several grades above) about Abigail and Jake, the siblings who complement and bristle against each other in a funny and heart-warming way.My daughter laughs every few pages as many humorous scenes are aptly described and well illustrated. You will hear separate alternating perspectives from the brother and the sister as they each face their own challenges. The audiobook narrators (in the audiobook version) do a good job in portraying the siblings, lending a lightness to the drama.

Soupy Saturdays with the Pain and the Great One
Our grandsons are 8 and 6 and love Judy Blume. They laugh and always look forward to the next chapter. Young boys always try to think of little pranks to do and these books just peak their imagination.

Stories for Children Magazine 4 Star Review
This book is packed with seven funny, truthfully revealing peeks at the way a sister and brother get along. You'll laugh with the Great One as she tricks the Pain into getting his hair cut. You'll roll your eyes as the Great One tries to pretend she can ride a bike, while the Pain points out how she always avoids getting on her bike. But the fun doesn't stop there. No--you'll enjoy a birthday party, play soccer, and much more with this sister and brother team. Only Judy Blume can capture the humor of what it's like growing up with siblings.

You'll also be entertained by the delightful and thought provoking illustrations by none other than James Stevenson.

Being any only child won't stop anyone from enjoying this book, after all don't you have friends whose brothers and sisters bug you when you go over to play? We all have been bugged, followed, tricked, and mimicked by younger bothers or sisters of our own or friends and with that in mind . . . I say this book is one book the whole family can enjoy.

"Bluming" Wonderful
Does Judy Blume write anything that isn't good? If so I've not read it.I read her books as a kid and I'm thrilled to see my nine year old enjoying her work.This one is great for those with younger siblings. It suggests that we really can find good qualities in little brothers/sisters.A great summer read for 2-4th grade. ... Read more

Product Description

"The Pain" and "The Great One" are not their real names. But you may know their voices. When this girl, age eight, and this boy, age six, tell all about each other, they sound a lot alike. They are brother and sister and they're caught in a contest over whom Mom and Dad love most. You probably know who wins, too, in this funny, family picturebook. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Sibling rivalry at its best.
Anyone who is anyone with a sister or a brother can relate to this one. The Pain (the younger brother) andthe Great One (the older sister)believe that their parents love the other more. Judy tell us why mom and dad love the Pain more than The Great One (through her eyes) and The Pain in turn stats why he believes that their parents love The Great One more. Neither realizes that they are equally loved by their parents. My oldest daughter who is almost 14 says "I Love This One!"

Honest book about sibling rivalry
One of the great gifts of Judy Blume is that she doesn't lie to kids. Her books are refreshingly - and sometimes painfully - honest. As a kid, I sure appreciated it. Too many books lie, because they think children can't hear the truth. They ignore the fact that children already *know* the truth many times.

The truth in this book is that sometimes, having a brother or sister just sucks. The lie that most people would try to give is the moral that you really, deep down have to love your sibling after all - right?

Well, Ms. Blume skirts very *close* to that moral, when each child realizes midway through a rant that getting a special privilege without their sibling isn't any fun, and, indeed, their parents try to push that moral on them - but no, that "no fun" bit is just another reason why their sibling is awful! And the next day they remembered, not the moral, but the rivalry.

Each child's rant about their brother/sister ends with the thought that maybe their parents like the other one best. I think we've all felt that. I did just last week, and I'm an adult :) There's no reassurance here except the other sibling saying the same thing.

If you're uncomfortable with this sort of presentation of facts, I'd suggest you borrow the book from the library before buying. Otherwise, I firmly suggest you buy this book for your own library.

Favorite Childhood Book
This book is one of my all-time favorites from childhood, when you would have bet money that your parents loved your brother (or sister) more than you! Written in cute prose by the wonderful Judy Blume, this book puts sibling rivalry into a funny and sweet manner.

I only wish I could find the one from childhood, when each kid had their own "side" and the book flipped over!

Great Book- good message
This is a great book, especially for kids with siblings!It shows how both children feel like the parents like the other one better and that they don't like each other but realize that life isn't as fun without the other sibling around.Highly recommend this!!

Two sides of the coin
There are remarkably few authors that have managed to write for almost every single age group.Judy Blume is one of the few.Though admittedly she has yet to write a baby book or large print text for the elderly, Ms. Blume has somehow managed to write picture books, young readers, full chapter books, teen novels, and even an adult title in her day.We all know who Judy Blume is, but we probably know her for very different reasons.As a kid, I knew her primarily as the author of "Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing".My husband, on the other hand, associates her with that deliciously forbidden text, "Forever".For some kids out there, though, "The Pain and the Great One" is going to be their first impression of this undeniably great author.As of this review, it is the only picture book ever written by Ms. Blume.Be that as it may, it shares with all her books the frustrations and confusions that all kids can relate to on some level.Ms. Blume, the great empathic, should consider adding a few more picture books to her repertoire.This first book demands it.

A white page with a pink border.In black and white print are two words: The Pain.A sister then begins to relate to us exactly why it is that her little brother is a pain.Right from the start, you see where she's coming from.This is the kind of kid who insists that his mother carry him to the breakfast table every morning.Unlike his big sister, if The Pain doesn't finish his dinner he still gets dessert.A truly shocked and probably envious sister watches, broccoli perched on her fork, as her brother dives into a delicious bowl of what looks to be strawberry shortcake.One night, she gets to stay up later than The Pain, but comes to the almost immediate conclusion that, "without the Pain there's nothing to do!".The cat seems to prefer him and she finishes with the thought that when it comes to her parents, "I think they love him better than me".Suddenly we're looking at another white page with a pink border.In black and white print are three words: The Great One.Suddenly the perspective has shifted 180 degrees.We're in the head of The Pain and he's talking about his older sister.Sarcastically referring to her as The Great One, the boy talks about all the stuff she gets to do that he doesn't.She feeds the cat, so it must obviously like her better.She knows how to do all sorts of stuff without messing up.She swims with pleasure and isn't afraid to put her face in the water.The boy's final thoughts refer to his own parents as well."I think they love her better than me".The end.

The book was originally published in 1985.Reading it, I had to wonder if it could be published today.In the current publishing market, I can see well-meaning but oblivious department heads trying to convince Ms. Blume to give the story an ending where the boy and girl become best friends and everything ends up hunky-dory by the last page.I was a little shocked that on a first reading, this is exactly what I found myself expecting.No, what I expected was worse.Because when I got to the pink bordered "The Great One" page I suddenly thought that the story would show how much the little brother really and truly admires his older sister, even if she thinks he's annoying.There's probably a book like that out there somewhere.This book is not it.This is a book that tells it like it is.Sibling rivalry has never been so clear.Cleverly, Blume inserts tiny (I hesitate to call them) lessons into the story so that in the midst of each kid's litany of complaints, they learn things as well.The Great One learns that staying up late isn't fun without her horrid little brother.The Pain learns that playing with his sister's blocks all alone isn't fun in the least.If you're looking for anything more sappy than this, however, you're out of luck.This is Blume telling children what they already know, and kids will appreciate the honesty.

Illustrator Irene Trivas puts her back into this book.It's funny, but depending on who's telling the story, the illustrations shift ever-so-slightly in their favor.When The Great One talks about The Pain, everything he does is understandably annoying.When the boy talks about his sister, on the other hand, she suddenly becomes infinitely competent, intelligent, and skilled.She's annoying in an entirely different way.Trivas also gives each kid some remarkable characteristics.The Great One tends to sport a cowboy hat with a bright green or red feather planted in the brim.The Pain wears a wide variety of hats ranging from goggles, winged helmets, and baseball caps to his own cowboy hat and football helmet.Trivas hasn't done any picture books quite as prominent as this one since its publication.Let us hope she gets rediscovered in the coming years.

The obvious book to pair this one with would be, "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day" by Judith Viorst.Both books are legitimate complaints from kids who feel woefully put-upon.Ms. Blume's books tend to have one thing in common: They know how to show unfairness from a kid or teen's perspective.Nobody does righteous indignation like Judy Blume."The Pain and the Great One", a kind of he said/she said book is the ultimate example of this.For some kids it'll teach them that there are two sides to every story.For others, it'll just reinforce previously unsubstantiated claims that their other siblings have got it better.For me, it's just a great book that needs to get rediscovered.That's all.
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Product Description
Ever since his dad got rich from an invention and his family moved to a wealthy neighborhood on Long Island, Tony Miglione’s life has been turned upside down. For starters, there’s his new friend, Joel, who shoplifts. Then there’s Joel’s sixteen-year-old sister, Lisa, who gets undressed every night without pulling down her shades. And there’s Grandma, who won’t come down from her bedroom. On top of all that, Tony has a whole bunch of new questions about growing up. . . .

Why couldn’t things have stayed the same?


From the Paperback edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (32)

A Classic Tale for Multiple Generations
Like many reviewers, I read this book as a 10 year-old. It was the "male" companion to Judy Blume's
Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret.. I remember the impact it had on me as an adolescent (and the discussion I had with my father after I read it - talk about embarrassing!).

I purchased it for my son. I don't think he's read it yet but I reread it before giving it to him - just to make sure I remembered what was in it so I could field questions if they came up.

It was a great book then and it's still a great book.

It is a very easy going way of letting young people (girls too) understand some of puberty's mysteries without going into a lecture. It give young boys a chance to feel like they are not alone in their struggles and changes.

Highly recommended for boys and girls ready to learn a little more about puberty. Not recommended for anyone under age 9 or so.

judy blume book
Well, I ordered the book thinking it was the exact one in the picture...that is the one I wanted.But the one that came, while it is the same story, the cover is one of the more recent editions...boo on that.

Great book! Well read by Justin Long!
This is Judy Blume's male version of "Are You There God? It's Me Margaret." It is read by actor Justin Long, who does a great job reading it and making different voices for every charactor.The best one is for J.W. Fullerbach, which he makes to sound, at least in articulation if not tone, like Christopher Walken.
Great book and brings back "fond" memories of junior high.

Rather worthless use of time
I found the book rather worthless with its story line about an uninteresting boy who is a pervert. The writing is predictable, the story is slow and prosaic. An hour of my life wasted.

A Cute Book
'Then Again, Maybe I won't' is basically about a boy named Tony whose family struggles with money. He lives in an apartment with his parents, his brother Ralph & his wife Angie, and his grandmother who cannot speak because of a cancer she has. Money gets even tough when Angie announces she is having a baby, and the family dosen't have enough money to raise a baby. But, all of that changes when Tony's dad hits it big with an invention he created. And suddenly, the family is moving to Rosemont. Money comes very easy than, and they move into a big house in a rich neighborhood. Where Tony meets his new neighbor who becomes his bestfriend named Joel, who likes to shoplift for fun. and Than there is Joel's older sister Lisa, who Tony thinks is the most beautiful girl he's ever seen. But lots of problems start errupting when Joel's shoplifting habit gets out of hand. And when his mom hires a maid that causes his grandmother to not come downstairs. Joel will learn that money won't solve your problems and he'll learn that growing up can be difficult.

I think this book is influential because it tells you even when you have a lot of money, It dosen't mean all your problems will go away. And that alot of times, people can get caught up with all the money they have. Before I read this book, I thought just by reading the back that it was going to be a good book. Because I really like reading books that have a lot to do with teenage life. After reading this book, I was still happy. I thought this was a really great book to read, since it talked about adolescence years. This books tells me about ALL people, that we all kind of think alike as teenagers. And we tend to not always do the right thing. What I learned about others is that some people may seem perfect, but really noone is perfect. And you might think you know someone really good, but really you probably don't even know who they are. The style of this book is in paragraphs and chapters. ... Read more

Product Description
Fudge, Peter, Sheila and the rest of the gang are here - in brand-new irresistible editions from Berkley Books. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (57)

A 4th Grade Student Review
Judy Blume's Fudge-a-Mania is an amazing book.It is about Peter, his brother Fudge and his parents who decide to rent a summer home next door to his worst enemy,Sheila Tubman. And to make it even worse,Fudge plans to marry Sheila Tubman! To find out what happens you have to read this book. Fudge-a-Mania! Blume created one funny event after another in this story. I laughed every time I picked it up. I love that she is so creative with her story. ~Daisy Duck

Britney's Review (A 3rd Grader)
If you like Judy Blume books and if you are a funny person, then Fudge-A-Mania is the right book for you! Don't blame Peter because he might start trouble. Fudge is even more troublesome than Peter! My favorite part is when Fudge starts trouble with Peter.Fudge claims that he wants to marry Sheila Tubman, Peter's most annoying enemy.When Peter hears about Fudge's plan, he can't stand the idea.I love Judy Blume books because they have awesome realistic details. They are like my number one favorite books.Get your read on with more Judy Blume books because her books rock!And if you have a baby brother like Fudge, bop him on the head so he won't annoy you!

Fudge-a-mania
A REAL GOOD BOOK!

This book is a real funny book that both my kids like. Instead of staying in New York City, they go off on an adventure.

A Good Thought
The first time I read this book I thought it wasn't a good book because I didn't read much. My teacher read it to me every day and every day she asked us question. Once we got to the middle of the book started to like it people in my class were laughing a lot because it's funny but in some parts I didn't laugh but on the other hand it was really funny. Judy Blume is my favorite author because she is number 1 she's funny 2 she's a great thinker!Fudge-A-Mania is my favorite book.

Fudge A Mania
Fudge a Mania by Judy Blume is a fiction book.I think that this book was really interesting because I didnt expect Fudge to like Sheila and try to marry Sheila. I think you should read this book because it is funny and itsinteresting. By Jamilex Dones







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Product Description
Fans young and old will laugh out loud at theirrepressible wit of peter Hatcher, the hilarious anticsof mischievous Fudge, and the unbreakable confidenceof know-it-all sheila tubman in Judy blume’s fiveFudge books. brand-new covers adorn these perennialfavorites, and will entice a whole new generation ofFudge—and Judy blume—fans. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (93)

The Best Book Ever
I read Double Fudge.It's a fiction chapter book.It's about Fudge and Peter and how they meet their long lost cousins, the Howies.And it's a book about how Fudge is in love with money.Do you like money?If you do, you'd be a lot like Fudge.

Do you know what Peter's dad (if you've read any of the books)nickname was?Guess what happened to Fudge's Bird?Guess what they called the two daughters of the Howies?Well, you're just gonna have to read the book to find out.

I would TOTALLY recommend this book to anybody who has ever read a Fudge book.OR to anybody who wants to read this book.This book is TOTALLY worth your time.

Love, Mariah D.

Gideon's Book Review
this book is about fudge that just turned 5 years old and he is learning how to use money the problem that is his mom told him to don't ask nice good people about there money so peter has to teach him and allasounden fudge get's obsessd with money so pete has to stop him from doing the bad stuff bfore his mom knows about it.pages up to 10.

Fudge is Back
Twelve years after it's predessesor (I don't think that was spelled right), Double Fudge was published. It's easy to say that many things changed between 1990 and 2002. There was the internet, DVDs, iPods, etc, etc as the list goes on. However, it is the same old Peter Hatcher who is once again caught in his younger brother's antics. This time, Fudge is obsessed with money, and while trying to teach him about money, the Hatcher family funs into Warren Hatcher's long lost cousin, Howie Hatcher, and his family. Even though Fudge is about six this time around, he really hasn't changed much since he was two.

While I love the Fudge books, and would like to see another one, I think it would be fun to start Fudge's point of view, talking about Tootsie, as she is getting older.

by Olivia
Peter and Fudge are two brothers, and Peter doesn't think Fudge fits in with the family.Fudge starts to think money is the most important thing in his life and gets obsessed with money.Fudge makes friends with a rich kid and the money problem gets worse!Then finally Peter and Fudge's grandma thinks it might help if their parents take them to the bureau of printing and engraving in Washington, D.C.Will that help Fudge's problem?
I think you should read this book because Fudge does a lot of wacky things and has a mind of his own.Fudge is a really amazing kid.After the first page you'll want to keep reading more of Fudge's adventures.

A Good Read for Grades 2-5
As an eight-year old last year, my daughter read all four of the Judy Blume "Fudge" books and loved them.Recently, she's asked me to read the books to her as bedtime stories; I think they've become the literary equivalent of comfort food for her.

"Fudge" is the nickname of the little brother of the narrator of DOUBLE FUDGE, a seventh grader named Peter Hatcher.Peter, his parents, his little brother, properly named Farley Drexel Hatcher and who drives Peter nuts (for, among other things, his obsession with money), and their little sister Tootsie live in New York City.DOUBLE FUDGE is the first of the "Fudge" books I've read, but chronologically it's the last of the four.This one picks up with Peter and Fudge living in NYC again after having lived in Princeton the previous year.

There really isn't much of a story arc to DOUBLE FUDGE, but much of it revolves around long separated cousins from Hawaii, led by Cousin Howie, whom the Hatchers run into in the gift shop of the Bureau of Printing and Engraving in Washington, D.C.(As an adult reader, I kept thinking that there was something nefarious in this "coincidental" meeting, but alas nothing dark emerges.)They're a bit too exuberant and countercultural for Peter, who can barely tolerate them.After Cousin Howie's family end up inviting themselves to stay at Peter's home during a visit the City, Peter and Fudge have to cope with the unwelcome intruders.Much of the second half of the book has to do with that situation.

There are a number of subplots, e.g., Peter's best buddy moving several city blocks away, but since there isn't much of a main plot, it's difficult to characterize any of the action as being subordinate to or superfluous of the main story arc.In this respect, what Ms. Blume seems to have done is to have created a hyper real version of normal life--real life, in other words, doesn't usually have a plot--its verisimilitude broken principally by being funnier than real life.

This representation of real life leavened by humor is what seems to draw my daughter's interest.Frankly, the writing is not as strong as I might have expected from Ms. Blume; I don't think that it's being "just a children's book" is what excuses DOUBLE FUDGE of its rather prosaic and wooden passages.(Lewis Carroll didn't seem to "settle" when he wrote his ALICE books.)Nonetheless, Ms Blume does have a deft hand at comedic situations, and I laughed at times along with my daughter.In the end, the most important critic is my daughter.And she loves DOUBLE FUDGE.I look forward to reading the other FUDGE books with her, if nothing else but to hear her laugh.

(Later addendum: Now that I've read one of the earlier books in the series, FUDGE-A-MANIA, I'd add to this review that DOUBLE FUDGE might be anomalous.The writing in FUDGE-A-MANIA is much tighter and funnier, and more touching, and the story has a unity that is lacking in DOUBLE FUDGE.)
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Product Description

Meet the very nice wife with the very dirty mind...Get to know the three divorcées who are looking for love...in one sexy volume from bestselling author Judy Blume

Wifey is tired of chicken on Wednesdays and sex on Saturdays. When a run-in with a mysterious motorcycle flasher brings her frustrations into rigid focus, Wifey sees her wildest fantasies taking flight and has the uncontrollable urge to catch up with them! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Wifey/Smart Women by Judy Blume
Book shipped in good condition and condition of book is like new.Would certainly purchase from you again. Have been looking all over for this book!!
Thanks!

Great
Judy Blume has always been one of my favorite authors, ever since I was starting 4th grade and picked up "Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing."I'm glad that she also has a few adult books."Wifey" follows the life of a married, stay at home mother of two, during 1970.She isn't happy with her life, and struggles to try and change some things."Smart Women" takes the side of a divorced mother of two with a steady job in the 1970's.This woman is trying to balance her children, a new love, and her friends. ... Read more

Product Description
Margo and B.B. are each divorced, and each is trying to reinvent her life in Colorado-while their respective teenage daughters look on with a mixture of humor and horror. But even smart women sometimes have a lot to learn-and they will, when B.B.'s ex-husband moves in next door to Margo... ... Read more

Customer Reviews (52)

A waste of time
The name of this book should be Women Who Are NOT Smart.The main woman, Margo, has the moral responsibility of an alley cat.And lets her high school daughter have an affair with an adult (who she had previously had an affair with)!Right.

Don't waste your time on this one.

Stupid Book
I also had read her original book - "Margaret".I was extremely disappointed in this book.It is one of the few books I have not finished reading.It was just simply common trash in my estimation.

Judy Blume STILL rocks!!
I too grew up reading Judy Blume. Her adult books are amazing-and hard to put down! Judy Blume has a knack of being able to capture a charecter like no other author I have ever read. She pulls you into these wonderful women's lives, and lets you see things from numerous point of views. I read Smart Women for the first time in the early 90's, and now I re-read it at least once a year. Its like visiting old friends..please, Judy-write more adult books!!

Just shoot me now
If you enjoy ludicrous melodrama, then Smart Women is for you.
Ok, I will admit that I read the older version, 1983, so maybe, just maaaybe, the updated version is better. It's just gotta' be better, after all it couldn't be worse.
The extreme whine factor in Smart Women is off the scale. Let me put it this way; say the world wide whine scale is 0 - 10, 10 being OMG whiney. Well this book is verging on 12.
A few years ago I promised myself, no matter how awful a book, never to throw it away in the middle, or anywhere else. But this one was like pulling teeth from it's roots without novacaine.
In one of the chapters there's a statement, "... what an intensely ridiculous mess ..." That pretty much sums up Judy Blume's Smart Women.

Weak women, not always so smart
I was pleasantly surprised by an adult version of a Judy Blume book.It's about a couple of women who all moved to Boulder after a traumatic divorce in their lives, each raising children.The story is through the eyes of two of the women and two of the children and how the events affect each of them differently.

There are some things that didn't make much sense to me such as one of the characters seemed to have a split personality she conversed with in her head.Another character actually did go insane - a little bizarre because nothing is really resolved.One of the women dated and moved in with another's ex-husband.A third got back together with her cheating ex.All in all is wasn't a book about strong women, but it was cute.
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Product Description
What's better than a double dose of fudge?An entire box! The first four books in the incredibly popular Fudge series are now available in a gifty boxed set. Whether Fudge is swallowing a turtle, digging up worms, or vowing to marry his neighbor Sheila, he'll definitely be driving his older brother Peter crazy.One thing's for sure, anything is possible when Fudge is around! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Fudge 4 book series
I was very pleased with the condition of the books and the quick delivery.Thanks. Wendy S.

Love them!
I loved these books as a kid and so do my kids now! Great present and great price.

Couldn't be happier
My 7 year old granddaughter asked for these books for Christmas and I was delighted to have found them on Amazon.She was thrilled when she opened them on Christmas morning.Her mom read these same books when she was her age so it was fun for us to sit and listen to her daughter read them to us.

The collection is great!!
I was very pleased with this purchase.The books are brand new.They were well wrapped and received in a timely fashion.Thank you.

Superfudge
I read Superfudge.In the beginning, Peter didn't like his little brother and he was angry that another baby was on the way.Peter took his brother to the movies, but he wouldn't let Fudge sit with him.When the baby came, Peter started to notice how Fudge was acting to Tootsie.That made him change his attitude because he knew what he was doing to Fudge.He realized his mom and dad had enough love to give to Peter, Fudge, and Tootsie.Nate ... Read more

Product Description
The first story features Margaret Simon, almost 12, who chats to God a lot about growing up. The second story is an autobiographical novel while in the third novel, Jill realizes that it isn't nice to bully other children. ... Read more

Product Description
It's 1947, and Sally J. Freedman is full of wild ideas. She's got her eye on handsome Peter Horstein, the Latin lover of her dreams . . . on old Mr. Zavodsky, who looks suspiciously like Hitler in disguise . . . and on her father, who Sally misses terribly. There are so many things to worry and wonder about--but what ever happens, Sally's school year will certainly be exciting--and unforgettable. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (57)

Starring Judy Blume at Her Best!
This was always one of my favorite books by Judy Blume.I'm sure others would pick Are You There, God, but this is the one I found most relatable and interesting.I was stunned to realize that Sally is only 10 (this must be my third or fourth time reading it and I just now caught it *headdesk*).She has her moments of immaturity, but I went through the book thinking she was at least 13.No matter the age, though, I'm sure plenty of children can relate to her.This is a historical fiction book, but the way it reads, you really couldn't tell.There are references to WWII being over and Hitler, but it's still just another girl living her day-to-day life.The characters are all lovely and Sally talks to them in a very engaging way, letting us know simultaneously about her world and theirs.The one nitpicky comment I have about this book is the excessive use of ellipses.Too many conversations had those triple dot-dot-dots and it did mess with my concentration at times.

Rating: 5/5

A great look at WWII-era childhood from the American perspective...
Growing up in the 1940s is both perplexing and exhilerating for 10-year-old Sally Freedman. The war has just ended, and her family is going to spend the winter in Miami to help her older brother Douglas recover from a bad kidney infection.

Miami's full of wonderful new things for Sally, including warm weather, knowledgeable older friends and a totally different style of living. But at the same time, a shadow seems to linger from the war, involving things that Sally doesn't quite understand and which no one will explain to her. So, she's forced to try filling in some of the gaps herself...which is met with sometimes hilarious and sometimes heartwrenching effects.

For some odd reason, this is one of Blume's least-mentioned books; although, it's certainly one of her finest.

wonderful!!!!!!!!!!!
if you read this book be ready to go back to the 1940's baby. sally battles soooooo many hardships in her life than she ever has in her life! i recomend this book to all ages . my sister is in the 2nd grade she read it and she loved it . hope to see you reading this great book!!!!(-: (-;

From a girls eye veiw
[...]
This book is very interesting and full of adventure, when I started reading this book I couldn't put it down the excitement of Sally's life was amazing and it remided me of my own.
Sally J. Freedman is the main character ofthis book she is about 11 years old and she is curious aboutlife's journeys. Sally is Jewish and she has some questions about her religion that you can find out if you read the book. Sally has to move to Miami Beach because her Mom is very conscientious and doesn't want her family to get sick from the cold weather in New Jersey.
When Sally leaves New Jerseyshe has to take a train because her Mom doesn't like to fly. Sally's father, Arnold, has to stay in New Jersey because of his business. Sometimes Arnold gets to go to places like Cuba or the Goodyear Blimp. Sally gets to take one of her friends. Sally's brother, Douglas, gets to bring one of his friends, but Sally's Mom, Louise, is scared. She thinks that something bad is going to happen when she is on the blimp, but Sally's grandmother, Ma Fanny, doesn't want to go either.
Near the end of the book some thing really unexpected happens but you will have to find out for yourself by reading the book.
I would reccomend this book to anyone especially girls who love to learn about life. It teaches about religion and superstition but sometimes Sally makes up her own stories about what she thinks about the people around her are like there was one person who she thought was Aldof Hitler but the rest is a mystery.

Growing Up
Sally learns that there are many different perks of growing up. Through the novel, it strictly demonstrates various situations that require special attention.Sally is constantly having hurdles to go through, and if you would like to join Sally, then pick up a copy of the book, and you will be able to go through the journey with her. ... Read more

Product Description
Judy Blume's much-loved picture book is now available in a specially-sized format with new full-color illustrations. Second grader Freddy Dissel has that left-out feeling until he gets the chance to show everyone--including himself--how special he is. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

the one in the middle is the green kangaroo
This is one of my favorite books for young children. It is a wonderful story and a good reading level for 1st or 2nd graders.

middle children are the best
the middle child has to often be the negotiator -- judy blume writes on a level that relates to children- wonderful book.

Judy Blume Did it again! No one is left out with this one!
This book is a fantastic book for children. It is a fun, easy to read chapter book. If your child is in the middle and ever feels left out this one is for him/her. It is a book about a middle child and a play. Taking a real-life situation and adding her own flare Judy Blume created a story as only she could.

Judy Blume's first book
I read this was Judy Blume's first book.Cute book.I have loved her books since I was a child.

Excellent for the middle kid!
Great book for the middle kid - my 8 yr old loved it and we enjoyed reading it together. ... Read more

Product Description
This dynamic bestselling author/illustrator duo captures the ups and downs of everyday life in this chapter book offering fun and perfectly narrated short stories—for kids who can already read, like the Great One, or for kids who are learning to read, like the Pain. Friend or Fiend? is the fourth book in a quartet of hilarious and warm-hearted stories that showcase the joys, the fun, and the frustrations of sibling rivalry and devotion, as seen through the eyes of those sassy siblings, the Pain and the Great One.
 
What's the difference between a friend and a fiend? The Pain and the Great One are about to find out!

Jake is so embarrassed by a reading circle blunder, he vows never to speak in class again. Abigail believes she can no longer trust one of her best friends. And on the perfect snow day, who rescues Jake when someone jumps on him and washes his face in snow? Finally, Jake and Abigail decide to plan a birthday party to celebrate the date when their beloved cat Fluzzy first became part of their family. But only Fluzzy knows what really happened on that dark and stormy night a year ago. And he's not telling—or is he? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Lukewarm Recommendation.
The sibling duo of Abigail and Jake aka the Great One and the Pain along with their cat Fluzzy narrate the compilation of stories by Judy Blume. In class Jake makes a mistake reading and is so embarrassed he vows never to read out loud again. Abigail argues with a classmate over a story her friend steals from her. Abigail and Jake butt heads and come together in a way all siblings can relate.
The stories are fraught with the high emotions of the very young. Blume accurately portrays the actions, thoughts and feelings of the youngsters.She uses a vocabulary suitable for beginning readers.

The negative I found was the over usage of he said/she said. It made the prose monotonous and predictable. I listened to the book and cannot comment on the art work. My review and ranking are based solely on the text.
Would have givena ranking of 3.5 stars. ... Read more

Product Description
Judy Blume is the phenomenal author who has more than 35 million copies of her paperbacks in print. She has achieved multimillion-copy sales with her adult novels--Smart Women and Wifey--as well as her young adult novel Forever and fourteen children's titles. In Letters to Judy, she answers the questions and worries that concern parents and kids most. HC: Putnam. (Nonfiction) ... Read more

Product Description
Trouble in Rachel's family is spelled with a capital C—for Charles.

From the outside, Rachel looks like the perfect daughter in the perfect family. She’s a straight-A student, a gifted musician, and a good friend. But her older brother, Charles, seems determined to ruin everything. Rachel feels as if it’s all falling apart. Her best friends, Stephanie and Alison, find Charles funny. They urge Rachel to lighten up and enjoy the end of seventh grade. Easy for them to say. Not so easy for Rachel. Not even when Jeremy Dragon, the coolest boy in ninth grade, notices her. Is it possible that perfection isn’t the key to an exciting life?

An ALA Best Book for Young Adults


From the Paperback edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (52)

Nice relaxing read
This is a very nice easy read for young pre-teens. I read the book just because I wanted a nice light easy read. I found myself laughing at the girls in the book as I remembered acting sometimes like them.

Rachel Robinson is a 13 year old girl who is highly intelligent and loves to learn. She is the youngest of the children in her family. She has an older brother who she finds annoying. I am sure many sisters would agree that their brother would be annoying too.

Rachel has two friends who she shares almost everything with. Her friends find her brother cute and interesting which makes her mad at them sometimes.

The Best For Girls
Have a young girl??? I bought all these for our teenage babysitter, Molly. Terrific books.
I love Judy Blume.

Unclear Ending
Rachel is a seventh grader and a super overachiever.She comes from a family where overachieving is valued, and her mother, an important trial lawyer, is the ultimate in overachieving.Rachel's sister Jess isn't perfect, but she gets along well with Rachel and is surviving high school despite her bad acne.The only problem in the family is Rachel's brother, Charles.He has been in boarding school, but proved to be such a discipline problem they expelled him.Now Rachel's peace and quiet is shattered when her brother comes home and looks for ways to torment her and the rest of her family.

Family dinners are no longer tranquil; Charles manages to ruin them by saying nasty things to the rest of his family members.He harasses his sisters and is downright rude to his parents.Rachel can't stand him, but she doesn't know what to do to get him to stop the way he is behaving.Her parents are at a loss, too.

To make matters even worse, Rachel's two best friends seem to be getting even closer together, and Rachel worries that her constant state of stress might be pushing them away.Will Rachel be able to survive the pressures of this year without snapping?

I liked the family relationships highlighted in this story.I liked the way Rachel and her sister interacted and the way Rachel and her parents interacted.It was interesting to see how her family fit together without Charles and how they fit together with him.I also liked Rachel's cousin and the different perspective she gave on Rachel's life.

I didn't like that this book didn't really have any conclusion.Did things get better?What happened after the Ellis Island incident?What was going on with Steph and Alison?I felt like the book should have covered a couple more months, and that would have given me time to get to know Charles a little bit better.

*My Review*
Here's to you Rachel Robinson is a book that many people could connect to.This book is a very good book because she is any other person like us hope you read it soon.I was given this book by my homeroom teacher Ms.Levinson.She recomended this book to me. I could realate to this book so muck because steph is a teenager and she is one too.She loves to have fun and I love to have fun to no matter where I'am at.She gets in trouble sometimes and I also get introuble too. I like this story because she is a teenager like me. Hope you read it soon.

In-depth Book
Here's to You, Rachel Robinson, is a very good book. Rachel, the main character, is in 7th grade, has an older sister suffering from a severe acne problem, and a brother, Charles. Charles is a huge trouble maker! All he ever does is get in trouble. He was sent away to boarding school, but was kicked out, because he never turned any work in. I really enjoyed this book, because it showed what it would be like to have a VERY annoying brother, who is always making you angry. This book also showed what it's liek to be a "normal" teenager today, becasue it tells about her crushes, school problems, adn her friendships. I would deffiently reccommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading about what it is liek to be a teenager today in Judy Blume's eyes. This was a terriffic book that many people would enjoy. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A highly recommended approach to a difficult subject
Each of the twelve books selected and presented in Teaching Banned Books: 12 Guides For Young Readers, were at one time or another challenged as suitable acquisitions for school and community library collections for children. Each of the guides to these books includes a summary of the novel, a pre-reading activity, tips for introducing the topic, critical thinking discussion questions, and an annotated bibliography of related fiction and nonfiction. The attempted banning of reading materials from libraries is a chronic aspect of library operations and educational curriculums. Teaching Banned Books is an impressive, informative, challenging, effective, thought-provoking, and highly recommended approach to a difficult, endemic, and controversial subject. ... Read more

Product Description

"What effect does [the climate of censorship] have on a writer?....It's chilling.

It's easy to become discouraged, to second-guess everything you write.There seemed to be no one to stand up to the censors....so I began to speak out about my experiences. And once I did, I found that I wasn't as alone as I'd thought."

-- from Judy Blume's introduction to Places I Never Meant to Be

Judy Blume is not alone: Many of today's most distinguished authors of books for young people have found their work censored or challenged.Eleven of them have contributed original stories to this collection.Along with a story written by the late Norma Klein when she was a student at Barnard College, they comprise a stunning literary achievement as well as a battle cry against censorship.

Contributors

David Klass
Norma Klein
Julius Lester
Chris Lynch
Harry Mazer
Norma Fox Mazer
Walter Dean Myers
Katherine Paterson
Susan Beth Pfeffer
Rachel Vail
Jacqueline Woodson
Paul ZindelAmazon.com Review
In this provocative collection, Judy Blume, the censors' favorite target,assembles an all-star cast of young adult writers who have themselves feltthe pain of censorship. Each contributes an original short story and somehighly quotable observations on their own experiences and feelings whenunder attack. "Where once I went to my writing without a backward glance,"writes Norma Fox Mazer, "now I sometimes have to consciously clear my mindof those shadowy censorious presences." The entries range from JacquelineWoodson's ironic story of a neighborhood's casual acceptance of arson, toHarry Mazer's touching tale of a tough kid redeemed by a little boy'sadoration. Two stories are especially intriguing to connoisseurs of teenfiction: Chris Lynch's "Lie, No Lie"--a selection that appears not to havemade the cut for his novel Whitechurch--in whichPauly sets his friend up for embarrassment in a gay bath house; and the late Norma Klein's "Something Which Is Non-Existent," a previouslyunpublished story written in 1959 when this much-censored author was incollege. Other stories by Katherine Paterson, Rachel Vail, Julius Lester,Walter Dean Myers, Susan Beth Pfeffer, Paul Zindel, Norma Fox Mazer, andDavid Klass contribute to this showcase of stellar talent. (Ages 11 to 16) --Patty Campbell ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Writers Uncensored
I first picked this book up on a whim. I heard about it from another source a few years back and saw that it had several authors in it that I read as a child/middle schooler. At the time I had little experience with censorship or banned books (my school district, by in large, held an indifferent opinion towards the reading material of their students) so when I saw that Judy Blume had been censored several times I kind of stared in stupification. It's Judy Blume for crying out loud--she was almost as popular a choice for me as the Baby Sitter's Club books or the Boxcar Children. I never in my life thought she was inappropriate.

Apparently quite a few people did.

In her introduction to "Places I Never Meant To Be" (which you can read online here, at her webpage) she talks about a particular book that first her mother told her she couldn't read until she was older, and then a public librarian told her she couldn't read without permission from her parents. A Rage to Live by John O'Hara was the book. I never read it, but Blume explains that once she had read it far from being influenced by the going-ons of the characters in the book, she was interested in reading the rest of O'Hara's books.

The other contributors to the anthology don't express similar stories, but they do talk about when their books had been challenged, their feelings, how it influenced their writing or the fight that ensued. Their stories push the boundaries of what is considered 'age appropriate'. In "Spear" by Julius Lester, he tackles the issue of a mixed-race (potential) couple when both sides are racist and narrow-minded, in "Going Sentimental" Rachel Viehl paints an unfettered look at losing one's virginity, and in "You Come, too, A-ron" by Harry Mazer talks about Aaron and Kenny in the foster system.

These aren't stories filled with sex, drugs and (my favorite reason for censorship) disrespect for authorities and adults. They're real stories about real problems teenagers face. Some end well, others end sadly and a few end with a bittersweet wistfulness, but they don't try to sugar coat reality. And maybe that's why parents and teachers censor or ban their books. Keep the real world from intruding. They can't change reality, but they can keep it from touching the children as long as possible.

Not all the stories were to my liking. Katherine Paterson's story "The Red Dragonfly" seemed disjointed to me and too subtle (and I credit her book, Rebels of the Heavenly Kingdom, as first getting me interested in asian history) for me to understand. And other authors I had never read before (oddly Norma Fox Mazer and Walter Dean Meyers, though I remember their books on my shelves).

I don't read genre fiction as a rule (reality depresses me), but I don't think that I am meant to 'enjoy' the book. Not in the same way that I enjoy Brandon Sanderson's epic fantasies or Georgette Heyer's historical romances at least. This anthology was thought-provoking and interesting, something I recommend if you want stories to discuss and reflect on.

F*** Censorship
I agree with one of the reviewers that said the stories in this book could definitely been better had the authors had time to really indulge in the characters and the stories themselves.However, the were very enjoyable for the most part, even at my age.It amazes me how ignorant the world is about great literature and are so quick to want to ban a book just because there's some real life issues in it.It's not like kids are NEVER going to come across issues like sex and violence and foul language.They're going to see it sooner or later and it's better they realize what is ahead (or currently going on) before they have to meet it face to face.If they are introduced to certain things ahead of time, they may be more likely to have thought out what they would do in those situations and make better choices.And anyway, haven't parents learned yet that the harder the try and keep their kids' sheltered the faster they're going to rebel.

...
Places I Never Meant To Be is a collection of short stories written by censored writers accompanied by each writer's personal experience with censorship. While the stories are mostly good, some of them are a little 2 dimensional simply because they didn't have enough time to develop their characters and/or situations.
I personally enjoyed the commentary more than the stories simply because it introduced me to an issue that I knew very little about. I was a little ashamed when my own hometown was mentioned as being a place where ludicrous censorship has taken place.
If you're not much for short stories, you might do well to simply read the introduction and each author's point of view. If you are, then you will probably enjoy this book.

A look at what is being censored- - good literature
I loved these short stories.In some of them, I had difficulty understanding why they would be censored.So, okay, my favorite, Paul Zindel's "Love and Centipedes," is a little insane.It was also utterly perverse and simultaneously sickening and hilarious.This one is a real treat and focuses on one girl's infatuation with a popular high school jock with a cheerleader girlfriend.I also enjoyed Walter Dean Myer's "The Beast is in the Labyrinth," a look at the damaging effects of drug abuse (why would anyone have a problem with this story??)Other goodies include Julian Lester's "Spear" and another story called "Ashes," but just about every single one of these stories has something to offer.This book doesn't insult the reader's intelligence by hiding away subjects that it deems you are too immature to handle that exist out there in the world.I highly recommend it.

Outstanding
I could not put this book down! This kept me up and reading threw the night. Within this book, authors tell their stories, of why there book was banned, what their thoughts were, and it makes you ask yourself, "Was it necessary for this book to have been banned"? Authors like Judy Blume, David Klass, and Norma Klein all join together to express their feelings in the fight against National Censorship. These authors are all apart of the National Coalition Against Censorship. In this book, it gives you a brief summary of their thoughts and experiences with censorship. Then there is a chapter or two, on one of their own books. It really opens your eyes to the world of censorship. ... Read more

Product Description
"No preaching (Blume never does) but the message is clear; no hedging (Blume never does) but a candid account by Kathy gives intimate details of a first sexual relationship. The characters and dialogue are equally natural and vigorous, the language uncensored, the depiction of family relationships outstanding".--Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books. ALA Best of the Best Books for Young Adults.Amazon.com Review
"Going all the way" is still a taboo subject inyoung adult literature. Judy Blume was the first author to writecandidly about a sexually active teen, and she's been defendingteenagers' rights to read about such subjects ever since. Here, Blumetells a convincing tale of first love--a love that seems strong andtrue enough to last forever. Katherine loves Michael so much, in fact,that she's willing to lose her virginity to him, and, as the months goby, it gets harder and harder for her to imagine living withouthim. However, something happens when they are separated for thesummer: Katherine begins to have feelings for another guy. What doesthis mean about her love for Michael? What does this mean about lovein general? What does "forever" mean, anyway? As always,Blume writes as if she's never forgotten a moment of what it's like tobe a teenager. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (311)

A must read for both parent and adolescent
Somehow I missed this book growing up, though I'm still not certain how, but as the parent of a child on the precipice of adolescence, it was recently recommended as a "must read".Thankfully I took that advice and purchased a copy.Judy Blume's writing and style are simplistic, which makes the message in her novel attainable for those younger readers.What the book lacks in purple prose it more than makes up for in content.Though written in the 70's, its subject matter is as relevant today, if not more, as it was back then.Ms. Blume accurately conveys the thoughts and emotions of a girl on the verge of blossoming into womanhood and the pitfalls of first love and the loss of one's virginity.

For those who find this novel too graphic or, dare I say, lewd, to you I say this: if you think your adolescent children aren't already having these thoughts and/or conversations, wow are you deluded.The fact that this novel neither glorifies nor vilifies sex, but succinctly portrays the twists of emotions tethered to the decision making process, more than makes it worth reading.What's more, it offers youngsters a window into the realm of "first love" and accurately suggests that "forever" is simply a word.In a day and age where teens are voraciously consuming books which tout the concept of forever and whirlwind love affairs, I appreciate that there is more honest, balanced literature available.

Nothing is Forever
MAY CONTAIN SPOILER - IN FACT...DOES

I absolutely loved this book and it may just be one of my favorite Judy Blume books, though I'm only 18 and so I didn't grow up in my early teens with Judy like my mom. I really enjoyed this book and the memorable moments like how Kath and Michael met at a New Year's party to their many dates and their love scenes. The book seemed to treat the subject of smoking grass quite lightly (Michael's sister smokes it with her boyfriend in their apartment like it's no thing, but it was the seventies and all the rage so...).It touched on birth control and VD, which was heavy stuff back in that time. I'm so glad this book had responsible teens when it came to sex; they took all precautions and their first encounters were entertaining and quite enlightening. I love books like this about teenage love and lust and I was so disappointed towards the end and would you like to know why? Kath and Michael had been together for a few months and were pretty serious about each other and apparently the parents didn't seem to like this because the kids would be going off to college in the fall. Kath and Michael were separated from each other for the summer, but they wrote each other back and forth and it was sweet, but Kath met a guy at her tennis camp and they became friendly and gradually, she found it difficulty writing to Michael anymore and especially saying I LOVE YOU or LOVE in her letters; and that's when I became angry. This was the point in the story where the title and whole point came into play. You think something will last forever and most of the time, you want it too. Unfortunately Michael, and Kath for that matter, learn this the hard way and both end up getting hurt - Michael the most. You can want your relationship to last forever and if both parties are dead bent on that notion, then maybe things can work out, but realistically (especially when things purposely drive the two apart) obstacles can get in the way and who is really that strong to resist temptation. The book had to be good, to get me riled up and angry at the protagonist. The couple I followed in the book and grew to enjoy together, did not stay together. *sigh* IT was great and followed through. I really recommend it to the rare younger teens much like I was because in this day and age, teens really don't believe in that mushy gushy love and romance stuff anymore. It's a definitely a good read.

Book Report Review
I read this book, "Forever..." by Judy Blume, for my book report and fell in love with it. The love, romance, and chemistry that Katherine and Michael share so young is something some people never find. They met in a way that most teens do, a party, and their relationship spread from there. After going on a few dates and hanging out, Katherine believed she was in love. This was Katherine's first really serious relationship, and she wasn't too sure how to handle it. They began to get closer, but only in a sexual way. I personally felt that Michael never truly loved her or cared about her as much as he said he did. I wanted to express my feelings and a little piece of what happens in "Forever..." without giving away the ending. This story has an amazing plot, theme, and tone and i would recommend this book to any teenage girl. This story shows love, heartwarming, heartbreaking, hatred, and most of all hurt. Read the book "Forever..." and I promise you, you will fall in love with it also.

Good for information, not so much for emotion
This book dates from the 1970s when it was pretty hard for teens to get any information whatsoever about sex and sexual relationships - no Internet then, and parents and school officials were even more reluctant to talk about it than they are now. As most people know by now, the book is about two nice, normal older teenagers who meet at a party, date, fall in love and eventually find themselves wanting to have a sexual relationship with each other. The sex scenes are described in detail but in an informational, not a dramatic, scary or otherwise "weird" way. At the time the teens are having sex, they truly think they will be together forever, but later events cast doubt on their promise.

A couple of things should be noted: First of all, these are older teens, on the verge of going off to college and generally becoming adults. Second, although they keep their relationship pretty private, they have families who are not too concerned about whether they're having sex with each other, i.e. they don't really have to sneak around or worry about whether Daddy will be mad or Mother will disapprove, if they find out. Third, the decision to have sex is presented as not having too many consequences. No one gets pregnant, gets an STD, gets ostracized at school, gets jealous, gets too obsessed with sex, or gets dumped immediately after having sex. One character does get a little too attached, but the way it's presented, that's fairly minor - that person just needs to move on with their life and likely that will happen.

On the one hand, I can understand why all these issues were left out. The focus of this book is on presenting a sexual relationship that wasn't accompanied by a horrible tragedy or "punishment" for the people involved, so that teens could just focus on what a "normal" relationship was like, sexually and a little bit emotionally. Many if not most or all of the books prior to this time that involved teen sex had something terrible happening to the teens as a result, such as an unwanted pregnancy, ostracism or even death. It was a relief when this book came out that someone was presenting a view of teen sex divorced from the "drama".

On the other hand, it's highly unlikely that everyone's first teen sexual relationship would go as smoothly as it's portrayed in the book. This book is sort of like "Barbie and Ken Have Sex". The teens in the book don't have any big problems or issues or insecurities in their lives; they don't have disapproving families and they really love each other so it's not a case of someone just being hot for someone else. I'm sure there are relationships like the one in "Forever" but I'm equally sure there are ones that are more like "The Story of a Girl" by Sara Zarr, or like the ill-fated teen couple who seek an abortion in "My Darling, My Hamburger, or like numerous other books where sex doesn't go along like peaches and pie. Furthermore, one character ends up being very upset by the relationship in "Forever" and the book just kind of pushes that aside as a personal-growth moment. I would have found this book more realistic if it had contained a few stories to contrast with the main characters, to show that not every sexual relationship goes along as smoothly as theirs generally does, and also if it dealt a little more realistically with the emotional impact that can happen when one person changes their mind about "forever".

It's still an OK book to read, but aside from the physical descriptions of what happens between the couple, I didn't find it particularly realistic when I first read it in the early 1980s, and I don't find it that realistic now. I did hear that the author has added a section to the book addressing AIDS (a disease which emerged some years after the book was published), and I think that's a good addition although I have not read it.

This book is trash
I am a 23yr old SAHM, This book is about a teenage girl who has very graphic sex with a guy she hardly knows, goes to planned parenthood to get birth control & then starts sexually fantasizing about another guy she doesn't know. Saying this book encourages promiscuity is an understatement. This is an awful book that overly emotional, hormonal teenage girls should not read. Teenagers are notorious for doing things they regret & to write a book about a fictional teenage female being promiscuous & not regretting it is absolutely atrocious. This book is utter garbage. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Super Fudge
I wish I had read the alert before we checked out this book!!!
When my daughter (8 yrs. old) and I came to the popular Christmas myth issue, I pretended that I was too tired to continue reading. (I hid the book the next morning and then took it back to the library without finishing it. She searched for it for a few days and then forgot.) I was also a little uncomfortable with the whole "where babies come from" discussion at the beginning of the book. We had read "Tales of a Fourth-Grade Nothing," and thought this would be a good follow up. I think we'll keep the Judy Blume books on the shelf for a few more years.

I agree with the Santa Alert
I was also surprised when they discussed that Santa did not exist. I know the book says it's for 9-12 year olds, but my 7 year old still believes and I had to skip many a paragraphs not to get into that discussion.Otherwise, the book made me laugh a lot with my son and we enjoyed it

Judy Blume made me love books. She's wonderful!!!!
I was lucky to have a library of Judy Blume books at my disposal when I was in elementary school and middle school. I loved her books so much that my parents would have to HIDE her books prior to our vacations so I would have something left to read in the car. Otherise, I would read them all, cover to cover, one after the other. Judy Blume's characters are very clever and just the tiniest bit mischevious, which is what makes these books uniquely INTERESTING. Have you seen the drivel given to middle readers?? If you want your child to start loving reading...this is IT. Buy them all. Buy them now. (Maybe your kids will end up English majors and book lovers like I did.)

Parents beware!Santa Claus is discussed in Chapter 10!
Yes, the chapter titles are listed in the Table of Contents.However, I believe there should be some reference to this chapter on the back cover to give parents a heads up!

This book was one of several on my daughter's required summer reading list from her school.I read the back cover and even listened to her read the first couple chapters out loud.

Maybe it's old fashioned but I looked forward to having this discussion with my daughter....never thought it would be Judy Blume....

Parents beware!Santa Claus is discussed in Chapter 10!
Yes, the chapter titles are listed in the Table of Contents.However, I believe there should be some reference to this chapter on the back cover to give parents a heads up!

This book was one of several on my daughter's required summer reading list from her school.I read the back cover and even listened to her read the first couple chapters out loud.

Maybe it's old fashioned but I looked forward to having this discussion with my daughter....never thought it would be Judy Blume.... ... Read more

Product Description
Used - Very Good ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing
I liked this book because it was funny and it talks about all of the silly problems that Peter has with Fugde. It isn't very long and should be good for most thrid or forth graders. It was easy to ready and there is a lot of details that make you want to ready along. I greatly recommend this book to any reader !!!

Ready for 4th grade!
Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing is a fun book for 3rd graders.It is a good way to show you about the life of a 4th grader. Peter is the main character.He has a little brother nicknamed Fudge.His brother loves animals and he is always getting into trouble. My favorite part is when Peter brings home a turtle. If you want to find out what else happens, I strongly recommend that you read the book.

A fun and easy to read book
Ilovedthis bookbecause theauthordescribedthescenessogood!IlovedthepartwhenFudgehadhisbirthday andwreckedthehouse! Fudgeandhisfriendswalkedonthefurniture, destroyedthecake andtrashed the house! Ilovedthis partbecausetheymadeitsointerestingandfun!.Fudgeandhisfriendsarearealmischief,Fudge`smotherisreallymadathimbutFudgedoesn'tgetintroublesinceheisalittlekid.Ialsoliked the part when Peterand his friends do their project . They do all different typesof transportation like: trucks, monorails and planes. They described how they colored and decoratedall the different types oftransportation they made for their project. Ididn'tlike the partwhenFudgeswallowed Dribble because first of all Fudgewasn't supposed to touchPeter'sthings . Fudge had to go to the hospital to get Dribbleout of his stomach with caster oil.
Ireally recommendthisfun, crazybook!

Review by a 1st grader
I am a 1st grader and I just finished reading the book.I kind of liked it but the worst character was Fudge and also everybody liked Fudge and he threw mashed potatoes on the wall. Everybody cared for him even when Peter's turtle died.But Peter did still get a nice, fluffy doggie!The book was kind of bad just because of Fudge and I just hated Fudge when swallowed Peter's turtle.That got my mind for the rest of the day and I thought by the back Dribble is going to do something to Peter's little brother.But it was the opposite way. I kind of do recommend this book.(Mom typed my unedited comments).

Amazing book
Tales of a fourth grade nothing
Paragraph 1
This book is a humorous book about Peter a fourth grader who lives in New-York. The book talks about how Peter survives with an "alien" instead of a real brother. Peter has a turtle, he likes it. But he hates his little brother Fudge who is very very very annoying; he likes socks, Peter's turtle... There is also Jimmie, Peter's best friend, his parents are divorced. Sheila, a classmate, is also very very annoying, she is the cooties queen. Each chapter is a new problem caused by Fudge: Peter's dad almost lost his job because of Fudge, Fudge pretended to be a bird and broke his two front teeth, and Fudge cut all his hair pretending to be a barber... Fudge went into his dad's work building and was a star of a commercial (Peter was mad because he didn't want Fudge to be a star... when he was only a fourth grade nothing...). At the end, Fudge swallowed Peter's turtle...


Paragraph 2
I liked the book because I think it's so funny how Peter tells the story. I think I also liked the book because I'm kind of in the same situation: I'm a fourth grader, I have a little sister. What I like the best is when Fudge swallowed the turtle. There were no parts I didn't like. Judy Blume (the writer) did a good job. I recommend the book.
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