Anderson's Hosts Author Judy Blume June 8 At Tivoli

For girls growing up during the 70s and 80s, Judy Blume was more than an author, through her coming of age books she tackled a variety of issues and offered her young readers an outlet and characters they could relate to almost as friends.

Blume will be making an appearance at the Tivoli Theatre in Downers Grove on June 8. Her appearance is tied with release of the first movie based on one of her books, Tiger Eyes. The appearance also coincides with the release of the tie-in edition of the book. It was first published more than 30 years ago in 1981, according to a news release from Anderson’s Bookshop.   

The special program will allow attendees to view a screening of the movie, which the author’s son Lawrence Blume directed. Following the screening there will be a question and answer period with the author and a booksigning.

Tiger Eyes tells the story of a girl who moves to New Mexico with her mother and brother after the death of her father. The movie opens in theaters on June 7.

More than 75 million copies of Blume’s books have been sold and her work has been translated into 26 languages, according to Anderson’s. Raised in New Jersey, Blume began writing stories as a child. She studied elementary education at New York University and as a young mother began writing stories for publication, according to the news release.

Her first in print publication was The One in the Middle is the Green Kangaroo in 1969. The release of 1970’s Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret, made her a superstar in the writing world. Since then, additional mega hits have included Fudge, SuperFudge, Blubber, Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing, Freckle Juice, Forever, and Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great.  Adult novels have included Wifey and Summer Sisters.

Those interested in attending the June 8 event must purchase a new edition of Tiger Eyes from Anderson’s Bookshop. An additional $5 ticket must be purchased for entry for one into the screening/booksigning event.

Tickets are available at the Anderson’s Bookshop prior to the event or at the door that afternoon. Anderson’s Bookshop is located at 5112 Main St. in Downers Grove, 630-963-2665. The Tivoli Theatre is located at 5021 Highland Ave., Downers Grove.