Lecture Date: February 5, 2026
The Fred and Barbara Rankin Lecture
Judy Blume’s life and work represent one of the most profound cultural shifts in modern literature. From a stay-at-home mom in suburban New Jersey to a literary icon and a leading voice against censorship, Blume revolutionized what it meant to be an author of books for children and young adults.
Her nostalgia-inducing and visually compelling story spans her most memorable—and groundbreaking—works, from Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret to 1975’s controversial classic Forever. These books not only defined a generation of readers but also challenged long-held taboos surrounding adolescence, identity, and emotional honesty.
Blume’s career reveals fresh insight into her strongly held feminist beliefs and the professional struggles she faced as one of the most-banned authors in the United States. Her legacy continues to resonate amid today’s growing book-banning crisis, raising timeless questions about what belongs in children’s literature, and why her voice remains as vital as ever.
Speaker: Rachelle Bergstein
Rachelle Bergstein is a lifestyle writer, bestselling author, and editor, focused on style, pop culture, and families. Her work has appeared in the Washington Post, The New York Times, NPR, and more. She is the author of three books: Women from the Ankle Down, Brilliance and Fire, and The Genius of Judy. She lives with her husband and son in Brooklyn.

