The Enduring Controversy Surrounding Judy Blume’s ‘Forever’
Judy Blume’s young adult novel ‘Forever’, published in 1975, has been a source of inspiration for many readers, but also a subject of controversy due to its frank discussion of sex and relationships. The book, which tells the story of two high school seniors, Katherine and Michael, who fall in love and decide to have sex, has been challenged by censors and banned in several schools and states.
According to an article by Time, Blume’s book was deemed too sexually explicit for young readers, with some states going so far as to ban it from schools. The controversy surrounding ‘Forever’ has not diminished with time. In fact, the book remains one of the most frequently challenged books in the United States. Between 1990 and 1999, ‘Forever’ was the seventh most frequently challenged book, according to the American Library Association (ALA).
The author has been an outspoken advocate against censorship, and her experiences with book banning have shaped her views on the importance of education and open discussion about sex and relationships. As Blume wrote on her website, "I came through the ’80s when book banning was really at its height. And it was terrible… Now it is back, it is back much worse – this is in America. It is back so much worse than it was in the ’80s. Because it’s become political."
The controversy surrounding ‘Forever’ has not deterred creators like Mara Brock Akil, who has adapted the book for Netflix’s new series, ‘Forever’. Akil, who first read ‘Forever’ in the ’80s as a tween, wanted to update the material for the current social media age while also staying true to the book’s radical candor. The eight-episode series follows Black teens Justin and Keisha as they fall in and out of love during their senior year of high school.
Akil changed the setting from New Jersey in the late 1970s to Los Angeles in the late 2010s, and focused on Justin’s experience, rather than Katherine’s. The show tackles issues that are affecting a new generation of teenagers, including consent, revenge porn, and racial profiling. Akil wanted to show how race and class in today’s society impact one’s adolescence.
The Netflix series stays true to Blume’s ability to tackle the complicated feelings of adolescence. As Akil said in a statement, "All the questions we have to sort through [at that age]—the first time you have sex, your first kiss, the first time you say ‘I love you’—it resonated then, and it resonates now."
Blume’s work has had a lasting impact on many readers, including Akil, who credits Blume as part of the seasoning of her voice as a writer. The author’s outspokenness against book censorship and her long-time support for Planned Parenthood have resulted in hate mail and threats, but she has continued to fight back.
In recent years, book banning has seen a resurgence in the United States, with over 10,000 books banned across the country during the 2023-24 school year, according to a report from PEN America. The group found that these bans disproportionately affected young adult books featuring characters of color and those who identify as LGBTQ+.
As the controversy surrounding ‘Forever’ continues, it remains to be seen how the book and its adaptation will be received by audiences. However, one thing is clear: Judy Blume’s work has had a lasting impact on the literary world, and her commitment to tackling difficult subjects has inspired a new generation of readers and writers.
The Netflix series ‘Forever’ is a testament to the enduring power of Blume’s work, and its ability to spark important conversations about sex, relationships, and identity. As Time reported, the show is a timely reminder that the issues addressed in ‘Forever’ are still relevant today.
Blume’s views on book banning and censorship are as relevant today as they were when ‘Forever’ was first published. As she told Variety in 2023, "Protecting your children means educating them and arming them with knowledge, and reading and supporting what they want to read."
The debate surrounding ‘Forever’ and book censorship is far from over. However, with the help of creators like Akil and the continued advocacy of authors like Blume, it is clear that the conversation will continue.
Judy Blume’s ‘Forever’ has become a cultural phenomenon, sparking conversations about sex, relationships, and identity. As the book and its adaptation continue to inspire new generations of readers and viewers, it is clear that its impact will be felt for years to come.
The Netflix series ‘Forever’ is now available to stream on Netflix.
According to Time, the show’s creator, Mara Brock Akil, wanted to honor Blume’s novel and put her own spin on a story that feels timeless.
Blume’s work has been widely praised for its honesty and candor, and her commitment to tackling difficult subjects has made her a beloved author among readers of all ages.
As reported by Time, Blume’s book ‘Forever’ has been a source of inspiration for many readers, but also a subject of controversy due to its frank discussion of sex and relationships.
The controversy surrounding ‘Forever’ is a reminder that book censorship is still a major issue in the United States. However, with the help of authors like Blume and creators like Akil, it is clear that the conversation will continue.
The Netflix series ‘Forever’ is a powerful exploration of the complicated feelings of adolescence, and its impact will be felt for years to come.
As Time reported, Blume’s views on book banning and censorship are as relevant today as they were when ‘Forever’ was first published.
The debate surrounding ‘Forever’ and book censorship is a complex one, and it will be interesting to see how it continues to evolve in the future.
One thing is clear: Judy Blume’s ‘Forever’ has left a lasting impact on the literary world, and its influence will be felt for generations to come.
