Renowned author Judy Blume has been selected as the inaugural recipient of the Eleanor Roosevelt Lifetime Achievement Award for Bravery in Literature, a newly established prize presented by the Eleanor Roosevelt Center and the Fisher Center at Bard College. The 85-year-old author, celebrated for iconic works like “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret” and “Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing,” has been a stalwart advocate against censorship throughout her career.
Judy Blume, often considered a literary icon for young readers, has confronted challenges to her work due to its candid exploration of topics such as sex and puberty. Her commitment to addressing sensitive subjects in literature has made her a prominent figure in the battle against censorship. Over the years, some of her books have faced removal or restrictions from shelves due to their content.
In response to recent efforts by lawmakers to ban certain books from school curricula, Blume, who faced similar challenges in the 1980s, expressed her opposition, describing those pushing for bans as “fearful” individuals seeking to control what children learn, think, and question. She emphasized the importance of allowing open discussion and exploration of diverse ideas, asserting that attempting to restrict information is counterproductive.
The Eleanor Roosevelt Lifetime Achievement Award for Bravery in Literature is a testament to Blume’s unwavering dedication to addressing crucial and often controversial issues in her works. The award recognizes her courage in tackling subjects that some might find uncomfortable or challenging but are essential for the growth and understanding of young readers.
Blume’s impact extends beyond her role as an author; she has become a prominent voice advocating for freedom of expression and the importance of literature in addressing the complex realities faced by young people. The award honors her lifetime commitment to bravery in literature, acknowledging her influence on generations of readers.
In addition to the Lifetime Achievement Award, the two centers will present inaugural Roosevelt awards to recognize authors and books that champion human rights amid a concerning rise in book banning and censorship. Among the honorees are works frequently targeted for banning, including Maia Kobabe’s “Gender Queer,” George M. Johnson’s “All Boys Aren’t Blue,” and Alex Gino’s “Melissa.” Other recipients include Laurie Halse Anderson’s “Shout,” Mike Curato’s “Flamer,” and Jelani Memory’s “A Kids Book About Racism.”
The awards ceremony is scheduled for February 17 at the Fisher Center, where the winners will be presented with their accolades. Blume, as the inaugural recipient of the Eleanor Roosevelt Lifetime Achievement Award, will participate virtually in a conversation alongside the other recognized authors.
The recognition of Judy Blume’s bravery in literature highlights the enduring impact of her work and her commitment to fostering open dialogue and understanding among readers. As a trailblazer in addressing important but often challenging topics in literature, Blume’s influence continues to resonate, emphasizing the vital role of literature in shaping young minds and promoting empathy and inclusivity.