Speaking of adulthood, I’ve gone back and re-read some of Judy Blume’s books over the years. And wow—it’s like seeing an old friend in a whole new light. As a kid, I connected with the characters and their struggles. As an adult, I see Blume’s courage in tackling topics that were (and sometimes still are) considered “taboo.” Books like Forever… were groundbreaking in their honest exploration of relationships, consent, and first love. Reading them now, I appreciate how ahead of her time she was and how her stories still hold up.

What I love most about Blume’s books is how they spark conversations. Whether it’s about puberty, friendship, or grief, her stories open doors for connection—between parents and kids, between friends, and even across generations. They’re timeless because they’re about things we all experience, no matter when we grow up: the messy, wonderful, confusing parts of being human.

Although my boys haven’t read Judy Blume (and likely won’t—they’re more into sports and action and adventure), I’ve shared my love for her books with friends and their kids. It’s amazing to see how her stories continue to resonate with younger readers today. One of my friend’s daughters recently told me, “It’s like she knows what it’s like to be me,” and I had to smile because that’s exactly how I felt when I first read them. It’s a testament to how universal and timeless her storytelling is.

When I heard about the event with Rachelle Bergstein, sponsored by The Jewish Library of Baltimore, in partnership with Associated Women, I knew I had to sign up. I’m excited to hear her take on how Judy Blume’s stories have influenced her and what she thinks makes them resonate across generations. If I could ask her one question, it would be this: How can modern writers channel Judy Blume’s gift for honesty and connection to tackle today’s challenges?

Events like this are so important because they’re about more than just books—they’re about community, connection, and keeping the conversations going. Blume’s work has inspired countless readers (and writers) to embrace vulnerability and tackle tough topics. Supporting events like this one is a way to honor that legacy and ensure it keeps inspiring future generations.

So, here’s to Judy Blume, to timeless stories, and to all the lessons we’ve learned—and keep learning—from her books.