When it arrived in 1970, there was no coming-of-age book quite like Are You There God? It’s Me Margaret. One of Judy Blume’s most controversial novels because of its exploration of female puberty, the book follows a sixth grader who deals with her stress by frequently praying to God. Though Margaret is decidedly not affiliated with any religion, she’s desperate for answers about the various problems in her life. Chief among them: she’s anxious about not yet getting her period. Margaret’s quest to fit in and grow up is uncomfortable, joyful and timeless, and plays out in a tender narrative that never takes itself too seriously. It’s a seminal text that has taught generations of young people about the inner workings of growing up, and it remains funny to boot. Never shall we forget Blume’s famous refrain: “We must—we must—we must increase our bust!” —Annabel Gutterman
Buy Now: Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret on Bookshop | Amazon
- Why Trump’s Message Worked on Latino Men
- What Trump’s Win Could Mean for Housing
- The 100 Must-Read Books of 2024
- Sleep Doctors Share the 1 Tip That’s Changed Their Lives
- Column: Let’s Bring Back Romance
- What It’s Like to Have Long COVID As a Kid
- FX’s Say Nothing Is the Must-Watch Political Thriller of 2024
- Merle Bombardieri Is Helping People Make the Baby Decision