“Are You There God? It’s Me Margaret” was in the reading list of the young girl from the international school I was coaching for English.
To prepare for our book discussions, I looked for the book in the library and totally enjoyed it 
Margaret Simon is a 12 year old girl (sixth grade) whose parents move out of New York into New Jersey for a better life, in which case here refers to getting Margaret away from her Jewish grandmother…
Margaret’s mother is a Christian and you’ll find out how poorly and un-Christian her family is later in the story!
Anyway, Margaret’s parents want her to grow up and discover for herself which religion (if any) she would go for once she’s really sure. Because of this, Margaret is estranged from her beloved grandmother who loves her very much. Hmm…
Although the book starts out with a RELIGION tag, you’ll find that “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret” is a beautiful, coming-of-age story that is a perfect read for pre-teens out there.
You’ll read about Margaret:
- adjusting to a new neighbourhood and a new school;
- making new friends – she finds herself in a clique of one of the “coolest” girls in school but finds out surprising facts about her later on…
- growing up and dealing with puberty i.e. periods, breasts, BOYS
- finally realizing that it’s OK to know what you like / dislike and stick with your decision even if it feels like it’s the wrong thing to do.
Our world today is sooooo crazy with peer pressure pushing our kids into trying out cigarettes, alcohol, drugs and violence, it’s increasingly difficult to be a parent or a teacher steering our young people towards the right direction.
It’s even more difficult to be a teenager, I think!
Looking for a Christmas present? Buy “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret
I know I’m checking out Judy Blume’s other books because this lady can write
Rating: 
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 160 pages
Publisher: Yearling (June 1, 1986)
ISBN-10: 0440404193
ISBN-13: 978-0440404194
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{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
Do you know that this was my 1st Judy Blume book and ever since this, I have waited and bought every single Judy Blume book that came out after. Even the adult ones!! I LOVEEEEEEEEEEE Judy Blume and will make sure my daughters read her.
Lucky you! I am definitely on the look out for her books (esp good used ones) because she’s like a modern day version of Jean Webster
I hope my Hubby doesn’t read this because our apartment is swamped with books already LOL
I LOVED Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret!!! I can’t even remember how long it’s been since I read it, but it’s a wonderful book!!
Hey, can you sell me this book? I am constantly buying books for Kimberly and am feeling the pinch. She is about to finish the wimpy diary series and the Nancy Kruliks and I think she would be scouting the bookshops soon.
Drey – Hahaha, seems like Judy Blume has many fans! Sigh, I didn’t get around to buying her books. Chalking this up as one of my New Year’s resolutions
AllThingsPurple – Sorry, dear, but I’m selling children’s books (mostly hardcovers) for now.
Lots of places are selling teenage paperbacks in KL or online (with free or affordable shipping) e.g. Better World Books.