cover image Letters to Judy

Letters to Judy

Judy Blume. Putnam Publishing Group, $17.95 (284pp) ISBN 978-0-399-13129-5

Blume quotes correspondence she receives asking for advice, written by readers of her children's books, boys and girls who don't feel free to confide in their parents. The letters here come from youngsters 10 years old through the teens and tell about specific problems. Some of these kids are loners rejected by peers; others feel neglected at home or hurt by divorce. The author hears from victims of child abuse, including incest; from those trying to quit drugs. A divorced mother herself, Blume is sympathetic to the young people who write herand sympathizes with parents as well; she intends this book to help them become more aware of their children's needs. (April 29)