Reviews

Blubber by Judy Blume

Only show reviews with written explanations

unaesthetic_reading's review against another edition

Go to review page

emotional inspiring sad fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

deschatjes's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

I wonder if this book could still be written and published in the PC world of today. It's honest, it's cruel and there are no teachers or parents riding up to save the day. Or even really nice kids. It's just plain honest and real, the way it is in real life. No easy solutions, no aha moments and the reality that you can be the next victim of the bully

bengtsonemma's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

Such an interesting POV and a great way to see dynamics between girls who want to fit in and girls who can’t.

hjswinford's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

4.5 stars

I appreciate this predecessor of Mean Girls. It is very much a relic of its time period, even if it's almost unbelievable through the lens of modern day. There was a brief interview with Blume at the end of this book and she said something to the effect of this book not being a book that you just read and then put away. It draws out questions and discussions about bullying and empathy and I really liked what she had to say.

This book isn't preaching about the topics is deals with, and that's what's so cool about it. It's creating thoughts and feelings and leaving the answers up to the readers. I don't think Middle Grade fiction puts that much faith in its readers anymore. In my experience, more recent MG either preaches about its topic or it avoids hard topics all together. Thank you, Judy Blume, for having faith in smart kids and involved parents.