A review by the_bookroyal
Forever... by Judy Blume

emotional lighthearted reflective medium-paced

• Diverse cast of characters? No

To this day 18 years later, I still can't take the name Ralph seriously. All because of this book.

Also I kind of want a story about Erica and Artie...at least Artie

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Content Warnings

Moderate: Alcohol and Sexual content

Minor: Fatphobia, Homophobia, Abortion, Suicide attempt, and Pregnancy

I haven't read this book since I was like 11. I forgot (or didn't recognize) how creepy/predatory Michael's behaviour was. Multiple times Kathrine says she's uncomfortable with something and he says he doesn't care and continues on, like the first few times they were getting hot and heavy. Once she asks him to leave while she changes and he talks her into letting him stay. That he'd just watch from afar. Then he ends up approaching her and gropes her chest. Would have gone farther if her sister didn't interrupt. If anything I feel like the majority of their "relationship" is coerced consent. So please be aware if that is triggering to you. I marked "homophobia" as a CW because while it wasn't spoken on page necessarily, I believe Artie may have been gay or at least queer in some way which may have led to his attempt. I think. Maybe internalized homophobia, idk. There's quite a bit to unpack with his character.