BLUBBER

Blume has been loved by generations of girls because of her honest portrayal of their lives. BLUBBER, first published in 1974, is a good example. When overweight Linda gives an oral report on whales, the cruel and power-wielding class leader, Wendy, starts calling her "Blubber." The name-calling escalates into more intense bullying and humiliation. The novel's narrator, Jill, is a full participant from the start. Over time, though, she comes to question everyone's behavior, including her own. Finally, she challenges Wendy's power and learns that there are consequences, as well as rewards, to taking a stand. Halley Feiffer's reading is stilted at first, but she warms up and makes a convincing and ultimately likable Jill. E.S.
(c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 04]