Judy Blume Reflects on Her Writing Journey and New Adventures

Interview with Judy Blume at the Santa Fe International Literary Festival

Judy Blume, acclaimed author of young adult literature such as Are You There God It’s Me Margaret and Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing, shared insights into her writing career at the Santa Fe International Literary Festival. Blume’s final book, In The Unlikely Event, was released in 2015. Now, she enjoys reading children’s books at her Key West bookstore. Despite her decision to stop writing, her work continues to be cherished by a devoted readership.

On Becoming a Writer

Scott Simon, from NPR, asked Blume about the origins of her writing career. Blume emphasized the importance of being a reader first. She recounted how, as a child, she was always surrounded by stories even before she became a writer. Blume believes that a love for reading initially sparks the desire to write in most authors.

The Transition from Reading to Writing

Blume shared that her shift to writing was fueled by a need for a creative outlet while raising young children. At one point, she experimented with creating felt art pieces. This brief artsy adventure ended due to an allergy to glue, but it allowed her to purchase a typewriter with the proceeds, marking a new beginning in her writing journey.

The Writing Process

Her writing process involved meticulous note-taking. Blume dedicated months to compiling ideas in a notebook before starting on a manuscript. She described how her characters became vivid to her, to the point where she could discuss their fictional lives with her family as if they were real.

A New Chapter

After a 50-year writing career, Blume was ready to embrace new opportunities. She finds joy in running her bookstore now. Though her writing days are over, she cherishes the positive impact writing had on her life.

Thoughts on Her Characters and Future Ideas

Concluding her discussion, Blume expressed satisfaction with letting her characters remain in their books. She noted receiving requests for sequels or further stories, but she feels content keeping her characters as they were originally penned.