In today’s world many of the rights and freedoms given to women are being reversed and it is becoming taboo to talk about things that happen naturally to young girls and women as lawmakers call for banning books in schools and limiting access to information about puberty and sex, young people need an outlet to learn and feel comfortable.
Judy Blume’s award-winning book Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret has been relatable for decades and today we finally get to see it on the big screen! When it was published, Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret. was revolutionary for its representation of an 11-year-old girl learning about her identity and growing up, and often when books are turned into films they don’t live up, but we can confirm that this does and we love it just as much.
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If you are not familiar with the story, Margaret Simon is a sixth-grader who grows up without a religious affiliation because of her parents’ interfaith marriage. This contemporary realistic novel was popular with middle-grade readers in the 1970s for its relatable portrayal of a young girl confronting early-adolescent anxieties, such as menstruation, brassieres, and boys. The recipient of national honors and book awards, the novel has been challenged for its frank discussion of sexual and religious topics
Ahead of the film’s release, we spoke with the stars Abby Ryder Fortson as Margaret Simon; Rachel McAdams as Barbara Simon. The on-screen mother-daughter duo was the perfect match to bring Blume’s story to life on the big screen.
While speaking with the pair we touched on the importance of this film and book, especially today when so many things relating to women are being banned or frowned upon, and why we need to continue to tell these stories.
Press play above for the full interview and watch the film on April 28!