Blume, Judy. Forever. Simon Pulse, 2007 (c1975). 192 p. PBK $8.99 ISBN 978-1416934004
SUMMARY: "Two high school seniors believe their love to be so strong that it will last forever."
RISKS: Descriptions of sexual activity
EVALUATION: Though not the only book in teen literature that deals realistically, but not frighteningly, with teenage sex, it was probably the first. Katherine and Michael are authentic in their feelings, the intensity of those feelings, how they display those feelings, and the quickness with which the feelings can change. Whether readers have been there, done that, or whether they are experiencing new feelings vicariously through Blume's characters, the author does not gloss over the complexity that comes with sexual relationships and the hurt and confusion that can result from that kind of vulnerability, which is, I believe, what adds enormous value to this particular reading experience.
READER'S ANNOTATION: How can you know the way you feel right now will be the way you feel tomorrow? Katherine and Michael want to always feel the love they have for each other now, but feelings are sometimes hard to control.
TOPICS: high schools; dating; sex & sexuality; love;
AWARDS: ALA Popular Paperbacks, 2008; Margaret A. Edwards Award, 1996
Ages 14-17
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