From Puberty to Politics: How Judy Blume Inspired a Progressive Generation

My conversation with Rachel Bergstein about the enduring political impact of Judy Blume. Her work, infused with feminist ideals, helped shape the progressive worldview that is currently under attack by conservative movements. As one of the most banned authors in America during the 1980s, Blume became a pioneer in fighting censorship, a battle that continues today.

We discuss Bergstein new book "The Genius of Judy: How Judy Blume Rewrote Childhood for All of Us," and how Blume's frank portrayal of adolescence and controversial topics like puberty, sexuality, and divorce revolutionized children's literature in the 1970s.

Bergstein argues that Blume's legacy extends beyond her books; she trained a generation of young feminists, ensuring the movement's longevity. Despite changing times, Blume remains a powerful symbol in the ongoing struggle for intellectual freedom and the right to read.