A review by james1star
Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret by Judy Blume

funny lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

First read of the year and thankfully it was one I enjoyed. I initially picked this up because I wanted to read this before watching the film but am glad I did so. In it we follow our MC, eleven year old Margaret Simon, who moves to suburb New Jersey ready to start sixth grade in 1970 (I’m guessing). She befriends Nancy, Gretchen and Janie who later become known as the PTS’s (Pre-Teen Sensations) as they discuss things like puberty, getting your first period, bras, ‘growing’ and boys among others. They get on well but are confused as to why Margaret doesn’t have any religious affiliation so sets out to research and decide which she’ll choose. Her solitary musings with god at night are where she feels totally free to be herself and these were great to read. I also loved the grandma and their bond was super cute. 

Blume perfectly captures the essence of growing up and coming of age, with a journey of self discovery and finding her true identity. Despite being written twenty four years ago, I feel what our MC goes through stands the test of time, being applicable to girls growing up today. I liked Margaret, she wasn’t like amazing (nor any of the characters) but she was fleshed out and I could totally emphasise with her throughout the book. The religious focus was a bit too much then I’d have preferred but it’s doesn’t really take anything away from the messages and lessons Blume is putting forward to the reader. The main one being the way others try to infiltrate her mind and how Margaret just wants to be herself. It’s written very simply with a clear middle grade audience but there’s still quite a lot to unpack and I read this in basically two sittings.  

Overall, a fun quick read that I’d definitely recommend. It wasn’t really applicable to me personally but I still enjoyed this book placing it solidly in the 4 star category. Bring on the movie! 
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