Mark Oppenheimer — Judy Blume: A Life - with Katherine Marsh — at Conn Ave

Biographer Mark Oppenheimer visits Politics and Prose to discuss his new book *Judy Blume: A Life*, the first major biography of the beloved author whose novels transformed children's and young adult literature. Oppenheimer, a journalist and historian, draws on extensive interviews with Blume, access to her personal papers and correspondence, and careful analysis of both her published works and early unpublished writings. The biography traces Blume's middle‑class 1950s upbringing, her complicated childhood, her marriages and relationships, her unapologetic exploration of sexuality in her work, and her role as a champion of free speech. Oppenheimer presents a multidimensional portrait of the woman behind iconic novels like *Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret*, *Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing*, *Deenie*, and *Summer Sisters*. He will be joined in conversation by Katherine Marsh, an award‑winning author of middle‑grade books including *The Lost Year*, *Nowhere Boy*, and *The Night Tourist*, and a former magazine journalist. The event is free and open to the public, with seating on a first‑come, first‑served basis. A livestream option is available for those who cannot attend in person.

When: Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at 7:00 PM.

Showtimes: One event at 7:00 PM.

Tickets: Free admission; seating is first come, first served. No advance ticket or reservation required. A livestream is also available for remote attendance by clicking the link provided on the event page.

Lineup: Mark Oppenheimer (author of *Judy Blume: A Life*), in conversation with Katherine Marsh.

Run time: Not specified in the provided information.

Ages: Not explicitly stated; the event is likely suitable for general audiences interested in literature and biography.

Venue: Politics and Prose at 5015 Connecticut Avenue NW, 5015 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008.

Accessibility: For accommodations or accessibility inquiries, email events@politics‑prose.com ideally one week before the event; requests will be accommodated up until the event time.

Note: The biography *Judy Blume: A Life* is available for purchase at the store (hardcover, $35.00). Signed copies may be available; check with the venue.