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(Entries are unedited. Messages posted through date of top message.)
Jo
In the Unlikely Event was an incredible book, so great that I am cowering in my bed right now as I am on the flight path to the Oskosh EAA world fly-in AND the Milwaukee Air and Water Show which has just started...thunderbirds here, harrier jets and bombers there, experimental aircraft everywhere...oh my!
Maddie
Hi judy,
I love your books my favourite book of yours is; our you there God it's me Margret, I love this as it relates to the feelings in depth that a girl round in their teens go through, I also look up to you because in our you there God it's me Margret you go into lots of depth as you should. Please can you write a sequel as my mum suggested it to me as she read it at my age. I was never into reading but when I read your book it all clicked and I couldn't put the book down so please write a sequel.
If your ever in England please come into my school as lots of children in my school (including me) would love to hear all that you would tell us.
Thank you
Norma
I knew Judy when she was a kid, I am older than she . I knew her parents, I lived on
Salem Ave.Elizabeth, when the planes crashed. Her book brought back a lot of memories.I was born on one of her poet streets, Keats Ave. I was a first cousin to her friends, Edith and Barnard and Toby.
Phoenix
Dear Judy Blume,
I just read your book Superfudge and I loved it.I was wondering if we could make it a movie.You could be the director since you made the book.If we make a movie can I be
Joanne McFadden?
, By,
Phoenix
Daniela
Hi Judy i love you books so much i'm in the middle of reading Tales of fourth grade nothing i'm on page 22 my mom got because i needed it for school (did you see minions i did't my cousin Adriana saw it i almost told her (why did't you take me) i think fourth graders are going to love your book's -Daniela
Jani (Zwillman) Jonas
Hi Judy, Thank you for the wonderful novel, "In the Unlikely Event"..loved it. Love all your books. Two questions...Longy Zwillman is/was my uncle. (Dads brother) Our family is very curious about the connection as he popped up so many times in the book!!! Our entire family has read the book, even the oldest surviving "Zwillman" who is 91. Also, as the "youngest" family member, we have been trying to compile a book/ movie..etc on Uncle's life. I was the person responsible for all the pictures of our family in the Mob Museum...we flew out to Vegas before completion to do the "family Wall of photos".. perhaps someday you would be interested in doing a book, he was such a truly colorful character...led two lives...would love to help you with the real information. Next question...I am the Assistant Executive Director at the YM-YWHA in Union ( right on the border of Elmora area in Elizabeth) So I even enjoyed the geography of the book even more!!! We are a small, (poor) Jewish Community Center, still left in Union on the border of Elizabeth, and servicing the mostly-now Orthodox Community. How cool would it be to do a speaking engagement about the book at our Y???? I imagine we couldn't afford it, but you can't blame me for trying ( its my job!!!) Anyway, would look forward to hearing from you on either topic... my direct contact number is 908-313-9443, or the above email address. PS...As soon as the book came out, I must have received at least 50 calls from friends who read the "Zwillman" passages before me!!! I'm not sure if you realized how many of us are still around... about 12 cousin from the direct lineage of Uncle Abe. I would also be happy to share with you what we have so far in the movie completed. Thanks so much for your time, Jani
Stacey
Judy,
I have been a fan for many years. Superfudge was my favorite book ever as a child,and I have enjoyed reading it with my children. I was really excited to read your new book. I have a daughter named Delaney and I was THRILLED to see a character in the new book is named Mrs . Delaney!!
Bill
Dear Judy, Just finished reading In the Unlikely Event. My wife got it for me and I read it in two days at the Sea Bright Beach where we go. I was 8 in Elizabeth, vaguely remember the plane crashes,
my father and mother went to one of them to help people, not sure which one. the book brought back a lot of great memories, Goerke's, Pamel's, Levy Brothers, wish you had mentioned Fanny Farmer candy store, right across street from Goerke's, my mother manager there for 35 years. God keep you well and I will now read the 100 True Tales of Murders and Mobsters by Jon Blackwell. Thanks for the memories
Lisa
My second favorite novel was (Are you there God) a Judy Blume. The first was "A Wrinkle in Time-Madeline L.Engle", I was in first grade when I read both during a summer read a thon. I read several others afterward that you've written.Thank you for inspiration throughout my life. It is something I will always cherish.
Susan
Devin
Sorry I forgot to put in my Email but I did now
Devin
Devin
Hi Judy,you are my favorite writer and I look up to you very much.I would like it if you write another chapter book for kids.If you could come to my school next year it would mean the world to me.If you would like to think about it my school is: Sahuaro Ranch elementary.Thank you for probably reading this message
Devin
Barbara
Dear Judy,
I lived and graduated from Verona High School, NJ and I am 4 years older than you. I remembered when you start writing and were living in NJ.
I am a fan and just started reading In the Unlikely Event and can't stop reading. I remember everything you are writing about- Weequahic High School group, BBG's. Thank you for writing about "my good old days."
Barbara
Bonnie
Hi Judy,
I first want to tell you that I am an elementary school teacher and have been reading your books to my students for years. I love them as much as they do, but now I want to tell you about my reaction to your latest book. I loved it. I grew up on Westfield Avenue in Elizabeth, and although I was only three years old, I remember the plane crashes. I grew up two blocks up from Mother Hubbards, and loved their hamburgers and pie. My grandfather Charles Stein built the old "Y" and the first buildings on Elmora Avenue. I went to Temple B'nai Israel and Rabbi Chertoff was my rabbi and even married me. My father was a radiologist who had his practice in our house at 715 Westfield Avenue. I had a friend whose last name was Monsky. I attended The Vail-Deane School and remember the Janet Memorial Home vividly. My grandmother lived at 1122 Harding Road. As you can already surmise, I loved your book because it brought back such wonderful memories of what Elizabeth was like in the 1950's. I think the way you made it into a story was wonderful as I could relate to the characters of those times. Than, you for bringing back so much happiness to me and cherishing your childhood memories as much as I did.
Christine
Dear Judy Bliume, I love your books as much as I love you!
My favorite book that you made is blubber, It's not the end of
The world, Igigs house, and Are you there God it's my Margret.
You are my number one favorite Author in my list! But my favorite book you made is Bubber. I think you would be a famous American some day. Love, Christine Yoo
Jennifer Jenkins
I BEG you to send me a character map so I can better enjoy In the Unlikely Event. I am so captivated by the story, but I can't keep anyone straight, besides Miri and Natalie and the Dancer and Mason. And the dog. As a caretaker of a spouse with cancer, I could really use the cheat sheet. Yours fondly, Jennifer
Mimi
I grew up in the Elmora section of Elizabeth, went to Abraham Lincoln School #14, Hamilton Jr, HS, and graduated from Battin HS class of 1967. I returned to teach at Hamilton for about 5 years.
I received your book today and cannot wait to begin reading it. I have twin daughters and you have been a staple in our reading library throughout their lives.
I attended ELSA HEILICK SCHOOL OF DANCE held at the Masonic Temple, which I hated big time.
There, I met a survivor of one of the crashes, she was so severly buned all over her body. We attended dancing school together. I will always remember how strong she was, how she held her head so high, and how she was my partner and how we walked together into that room where we had to present to MS Heilick.
We all have different recollections of significant moments in our lives that we never forget. I would very much love to know if there is any record of this special survivor and her future story,
If you can provide me with any additional information you might know about this special young lady, her family, amd their story I would be so appreciative.
Thank you, Mimi
Lynda
Loved your new book!! My Fourth of July read! Thanks
Jane
In the Unlikely Event took me right back to those horrid days of the crashes. And, on a happier note, I was once again at Schutt's, The Tavern, the Elks Club, YMHA, Georke's, Levy's and Fishman's. (And the Children's Country Home on a less happy note.) My Mother was a nurse at Eliz. General Hospital and cared for a man who survived the crash en route to FL, but lost his wife and child. His parents invited my Mother to accompany him on train to their FL home, and they entertained her royally. Thanks for the memory trip!
Dia
thank you for all your books. I've read everyone but Unlikely is my very favorite. I will sing its praises as I share with my family and friends
Thanks again
Dia
Christina
I'm just starting to read In The Unlikely Event, what a title, so looking forward to reading something I will not discard after the first few pages. I grew up with your books, and you're what inspired me to writie August Moon (to be published soon). We have such a similar writing style, love you!
V.
I so enjoyed hearing you on NPR today and I can't wait to read your new book. Your interview brought back such a rush of emotions that I found myself suddenly weeping in my car on the way to buy dog food! I had an extremely difficult childhood and books were my only solace and escape. Your literary voice and the lives of your characters were my life raft, and I could never thank you enough for tossing them out to those of us who were floundering. I deeply regret having missed your recent tour. I hope you realize that, for at least one little girl many years ago, you were a savior. Thank you.
P.S. On a lighter note: My first pet was, of course, a bird named Uncle Feather!
Michael Bristol
Dear Judy Blume,
My sister has just alerted me to your new book on the Elizabeth, NJ plane crashes. I was standing in our living room on Harding Road when I saw the first plane fly over the house across the street - it was on fire, bits were dropping off and it was descending pretty fast. I went to tell my parents and they didn't believe me. Half an hour later the phone rang. It was my uncle, a reporter for the Elizabeth Journal, who as at the crash site.
Danny
Dear Judy, Thank you for being on Tom Ashcroft's show this morning, with Jane. I recognized your name but didn't know who you were. Since I went to Miami Beach High many years ago, your name rang many bells. When I heard your voice, and then all the callers, I started to cry. I'm a big N.P.R. fan, and I've heard a lot of interviews. But the unvarnished, open love that went on between you, is something I, and many of us, need to hear. Thank you, Danny, Aventura, Florida.
Maren
Dear Judy,
I am a big fan of your work and was wondering if you plan to publish any more books like "Are you There God? It's me, Margaret." and "Just as Long as We're Together" I don't mean with the same characters or plot or anything, I mean with a similar setting and characters of that age range. I found those books very enjoyable and easy to relate to considering my age and current experiences.
It's difficult to find books that depict girls as spot-on as you do,and don't go overboard on the drama or profanity. So maybe you can understand why I'm sharing this suggestion with you.
I enjoyed your other works as well, but as I grow older, I find myself more attached to your books geared towards a pre-teen audience. So if you have the time, could you possibly consider similar ideas? I understand you must be very busy and being an author takes time, but it's just a suggestion. You don't have to if you don't want to.
Thanks for reading,
Maren
Cheri
I was excited to learn you had a new book! I read your books when I was in my young teens and my kids have read your classics as well! i had to work today but sent my hubby to buy In the Unlikely Event the minute the Chapters/Indego opened today!! Secured my copy and can't wait to start reading!
Carleen Jenkins
Dear Ms Blume
I have grown up on your books and followed that passion right into the library. I am a librarian for a small library outside of Chicago in East DBQ IL. What would it take for you to come to my library and sign or meet us with your newest book In the Unlikely Event. I would be thru the moon just to say I met my hero.
Thanks again
Carleen Jenkins
Childrens Librarian
Steph
Thank you for taking the time to post your tips & wise words and share your stories! I enjoyed your books as a kid and look forward to reading the adult books. Ashamed to say, I haven't read them yet and I am an avid reader. Hope you have a wonderful day!
nancy probst
Hi Mrs. Blume
I know your busy but I wanted to see if I could get some advice. I have been writing my autobiography. I just writer as it comes out of my head. I don't know where a chapter begins. I want to know where do it start. I don't have a lot of money. I know I need editing. When you sent in your manuscript did you have it edited it first or just sent it in. This is something I've wanted to do for most of my life. If you could give me any advice that would help. I'd really appreciate it
Thank you.
Nancy
ZEUS
I've read your book about a boy covering his crohc with books when he saw pretty girls. I did not understand the problem, until I move to the USA.
wrong underwear. Stupid really.
Judy M
Hi Judy,
It was so wonderful to meet you in person in Elizabeth, if even for just a moment. You have been so gracious to acknowledge my book, Replacement Child, in yours and recommend it for "people who are interested in the true story of one family caught up in the tragedy of the second plane crash." As you know, it is a story close to my heart, and I appreciated how in In The Unlikely Event you were true to the historical background that was the backdrop to your wonderful fictional story. I loved the details about Elizabeth, of course, having spent much of my childhood on those streets near my dad's jewelry store. And, I was tickled by the mention of his store--Goldblatt's! He would have loved that! I was captivated by Miri's story and how you brought to life that period of time and how that community was surely reverberating from these mysterious plan crashes. Thank you for this book--and I am thrilled to have been any small part in your original research! With love, Judy Mandel
Jeannette
I read In the Unlikely Event. While I really enjoyed the story and its dynamics, I was very disappointed in the fact that you did not capitalize the word God in any point in your reference to Him. I assume you know that Jews do not reverence idols but worship the one true God.
OLUSHEY
I just saw her live now at Downtown Toronto . Yonge & Bloor library in Toronto, Canada. the biggest library in North america. 6/29/2015. Actually i don't know her or her books but the live talk or can i call it an interview was great. wow all i can say is wow. lots of people though almost 300 people here now. well i will read more about her. shes is blessed i pray God continues to bless her and more grace to her elbow (Its a proverb) figure it out. Am a new fan or reader of your books. Bless
Polly
Hi Judy,
I was in 5th Grade and 4 blocks away from the World Trade Center at PS 234 on September 11, 2001. I don't know if us 9/11 kids crossed your mind when you were writing "In the Unlikely Event," but I do want to thank you for the book, and also to publicly thank my 5th grade teacher, Sandy Bridges, and all the other PS 234 adults who--unlike Miri's teachers-- knew that we needed to talk about it.
Ellen3
Hi everyone,
I love JB's books. Do you?
From Ellen3
Rosi
I know its a little late in life to read a children's book but I just read ,"Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret." I found it delightful. I saw you on "The View." I had heard of your books because of of my granddaughter's, the one who reads, used to get me to take her to the bookstore to buy your books. I'm glad I did.
I have purchased your new book for adults. I think it will be my next read.
ambar
JUDY i love you when i was little i used to whatch your movies now i read them your number 1 fan ambar
Anne
Thank you so much for writing about the plane crashes as horrible as they were. I was born in Elizabeth, NJ in 1950, moved to Texas in 1953 and my parents never mentioned the crashes so I was so shocked to find out they had happened. My guess is it was such a sad time my parents didn't want to talk about the tragic events. I have only been back to Elizabeth once so I enjoyed reading about places I heard about from my Dad. My grandparents lived on Westminister Avenue, my Dad went to Pingry School and we moved in 1951 to Cranford. The one time I went back. my aunt took me to a restaurant that was owned by Dorothy Dennis. In addition to learning about the place I was born, I enjoyed the characters in the book. Thank you for giving me a little piece of my childhood history.
Emm
Judy Blume I love you I have al your books plz make more soon
Christina
Hi Ms Blume, I have been a reader of your books the majority of my life. I am now reading an unlikely event which I am enjoying despite the sad events that are a large part of the story. I love the time period and the music involved as I used to listen with my Nana to a classic station so it brings back wonderful memories. Thank you so much for all the wonderful books you have enriched my life with and bringing back memories of my mother too. I wish you the best ,
Christina
Jenzi
Hi Judy! Just heard the feature on All Things Considered about your "Sally J Freedman" winters in Miami Beach -- LOVED it!! I discovered that book when I was in 6th grade and was thrilled there was actually a Judy Blume book I hadn't yet read! I wondered if Sally was you when you were that age Thanks so very very much for ALL your works. As so many readers have told you, you made a HUGE positive difference in my childhood and young teen years, helping me realize I was normal in so many ways when I needed to hear it the most!! So glad you're still writing (well, you're much too young to retire)...please keep it up, you are a treasure.
Robin
Judy, thank you so much for speaking at the Greenwich Library. You were wonderful! I laughed, I cried, I applauded for Blubber! What more could you ask for! A group of women so diverse, yet united in their love of reading, and their love of reading you! Look at the good you have brought to the world! Warm regards, Robin
Lilah
Hi judy! I have read every single one of your kids books, and all of the young adult books. (Expect Forever, but i reaaaalllly want to.) My favorite is probably Tiger Eyes. It is so inspiring, and a wonderful story. Thank you for writing theses books, because basically that is all that is on my bookshelf.
Betsy
Julia
I have been a fan since I was 8 years old, the first book bought for me was Starring Sally J. Freedman as herself. I still read the book on occasion and it still makes me smile!
pat
Am reading your latest book, and having lived in the Elmora section of Elizabeth in the 40's and 50's I well remember the crashes, and all the places mentioned in your novel. I remember how tramatized I was by the events. Our family had driven to the crash sites. I am reliving all the emotions.
Holly
There's a passage (three paragraphs to be exact) in "Censorship: A Personal View" that always gives me chills. As a reader, writer, and college-level English teacher, I want to thank you for these words.
As I understand it, the essay was initially written as an introduction to Places I Never Meant to Be. In any case, it's been reprinted (with permission) in our course textbook. As such, I discuss it with my Comp 2 students every semester because--as developing critical thinkers--they need to hear (and, I hope, truly consider) these words too.
Thank you for being brave.
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