Blume, J. (1976). Forever. Pocket Book edition.
5 out of 5 stars
Age range 14-18
This novel is a realistic tale about falling in love, having sex for the first time, and then moving on. Katherine, a young woman, meets Michael and they start seeing each other. The book takes the reader through the various stages of their realtionship. Mainly though, the book is about discovering sex and all of the implications that it has. Michael and Katherine are in love and declare that they will be “forever”. Michael gives Katherine a locket that has their names and forever engraved on it. Their parents are worried that they are too serious about eachother and they each have to spend the summer away. Katherine teaches tennis at her little sister’s camp and discovers a growing attraction to Theo. She is torn between her feelings for Michael and her feelings for Theo. She and Michael inevitably break up and she moves on despite her and Michael’s original dedication to each other. Katherine realizes that she is too young for forever.
The story seems to be a way for the author to discuss sex as honestly and unjudgementally as possible. This is not to say the plot is lacking. I found it to be a really enjoyable story. However, it also provides a lot of detail on important things like birth control, STD’s, the emotions involved and other sexual education information. It is apparent why this book is on the controversial list but it seems like an excellent way to approach these topics with young adults.
I also found that while the book was written in the 70′s, it still contains really accurate information and is probably very relevant even now. It is such a sensible book, taking a really direct approach. It also didn’t have a lot of trend sensitive detail to jar the reader. I think it will remain relvant for many years to come.
Kate
