I had so much fun reading this book as it reminded me of all the Judy Blume books I read as a young person. Blume has an accessible style that draws you in to the lives of the characters. There are many players in this novel, but it is easy to follow the interconnections between the friends and families. You might not want to read this when flying, but otherwise it's a great summer read.
I got this book when Judy Blume came to speak at our public library speaker series last summer. Like so many my age, I grew up reading her books that shaped my adolescence, so it was such a joy to hear her speak in person. I was weary about reading this book although I read one of her other adult novels, Summer Sisters, years ago and loved it. I just didn't want to be disappointed, but what was I thinking. Can Judy Blume really disappoint? I am still amazed with how she can create characters that I remember long after I finish the book. Many of the characters in this book show the same vulnerability as the characters in her very famous YA books that shall forever live in infamy, but that is what Judy Blume does best - she captures the innocence and vulnerability of being young that never quite leaves our minds. And, being that this book takes place in the 1950's in a particularly turbulent time in the town where Judy grew up makes it even more special. She vaguely hinted that this could be her last book, and if it is, she has ended her illustrious 35 year career with another winner.
