As one of the world’s most celebrated—and censored—authors in the young adult genre, Judy Blume has become the seminal voice of a (younger) generation. Best known for her frank and funny take on adolescence, Blume is regarded as a pioneer in making it okay for teens to discuss their bodies and fears. Join Judy Blume: Fearless Storyteller for Teens author Jen Jones Donatelli for a deep-dive into three of Blume’s most well-known works: Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret; Deenie; and Forever. Learn the stories behind the stories and revisit the classics that told the true tales of teenhood in a group of fellow YA aficionados.
Instructor: Jen Jones Donatelli is a full-time freelance writer/editor with over a decade of experience. Currently, she is the editor-in-chief of Edible Cleveland, along with acting as a contributing editor FreshWater Cleveland, Destination Cleveland, and Your Teen. To date, her work has been published in national outlets including REDBOOK, Robb Report, Budget Travel, Playboy, Variety, Thrillist, GOOD, Natural Health, and many more. She has also authored numerous books for publishers such as Capstone Press and Enslow Publishing, including the Team Cheer and Sleepover Girls fiction series for tweens. When not typing the day away at her laptop, she teaches writing and creativity (specifically The Artist’s Way) for Literary Cleveland, Ohio University, StoryStudio Chicago, and Creative Groove. Jen is a proud graduate of the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism at Ohio University.
Online class info: This class will meet online on Mondays from 6:30-8:30pm using Zoom video conferencing. On the first day of class, we will give you a tutorial on how to use Zoom. Once you sign on using the instructions we will provide, you will be able to see and talk with your instructor and your fellow participants—just like you would in one of our meeting rooms. All you need is a good internet connection and a computer or smartphone with a camera and microphone. Not sure if your system is compatible? Just click here. Have any questions about online classes? Email or call associate director Matt Weinkam at mweinkam@litcleveland.org.
Details: Reader Series: Judy Blume takes place Mondays June 1, 15, & 29 from 6:30-8:30pm remotely through Zoom.
