Dear, Dear Judy Blume

It’s finally happened: Beernut has a favourite book.

Sure, he had certain books he was partial to as a really little guy. A particularly ravenous insect comes to mind… But those days are long gone. And Beernut is very forthcoming regarding his dislike of the written word. Asperger’s makes reading increasingly difficult for Beernut. Grasping inferences, predicting character behaviours, and anticipating outcomes are outside of his realm. And he has grown to despise reading.

Which is why I about fell out of my chair when, after declaring that he hates to read during his recent camp interview, he then admitted that there was one exception.

I can certainly attest to the fantastic nature of the book given that I have now read it to Beernut dozens of times. [And this is on top of the several rereadings when I was a kid.] I have read most, though not all, of Judy Blume’s books. She is a wonderful writer and though times have changed, rendering some of the narrative a little dated, the overall themes and situations are timeless.

Judy Blume is known for her ongoing communication with her thousands of fans and has adeptly transitioned to the world of social media. Still, I was just totally a little breathless and weak-kneed happy to read her reply to my Tweet:

A shout-out from Judy Blume?? As if Beernut could adore Judy Blume even more.

Me too.

Thank you, Judy Blume, for writing a book for my son to love. He’s not a reader and, due to his Asperger’s, might never be a reader. But he has found a story that delights him. Entertains him. Moves him. And provides a platform for many wonderful shared moments. That is not a small triumph.

It is everything.