44 pages 1 hour read

It's Not the End of the World

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1972

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Summary and Study Guide

Overview

It's Not the End of the World is a young adult novel by Judy Blume that was published by Bradbury Press in 1972. The story centers around 12-year-old Karen Newman, who grapples with the emotional upheaval caused by her parents' decision to divorce. As Karen navigates the complexities of her new reality, the novel delves into themes of family, change, and resilience.

Blume is an acclaimed American author whose extensive body of work has earned her numerous accolades and a dedicated readership. It's Not the End of the World is one of Blume’s early novels, which has been praised for its honest depiction of family dynamics and The Impact of Divorce on Children.

This study guide uses the 2001 revised format edition as published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers.

Plot Summary

Karen lives with her parents, Bill and Ellis, older brother, Jeff, and younger sister, Amy in a house in suburban New Jersey. At the beginning of the novel, Bill and Ellie argue bitterly in front of their kids. Bill criticizes Ellie’s cake, and Ellie responds by smashing it. Karen reacts to the negativity by grading her day a C-.

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