Judy Blume’s beloved novel Forever is about to develop into a Netflix collection.
The streamer has given a collection order to the undertaking from author and showrunner Mara Brock Akil (Girlfriends, Being Mary Jane), who has an general deal at Netflix. Forever was certainly one of 4 exhibits Akil and her Story27 firm introduced had been within the works in September 2021.
Forever is impressed by Blume’s groundbreaking 1975 novel, which Akil is reimagining for a brand new era. The collection will inform the epic love story of two Black youngsters who’re exploring romance and their identities by means of the awkward journey of being one another’s firsts.
“Judy Blume’s ability to capture the real emotions we experience during the various rites of passage of our youth influenced my life choices and writing voice,” Akil mentioned in a press release. “I’m honored to reimagine one of my favorite books, Forever. I am thrilled to have the opportunity of a lifetime to partner with a childhood icon and bring this story to my Netflix home, where the idea of your first love being with you Forever is shared with the world through the lens of Black love.”
Added Renate Redford, vp general offers at Netflix, “We are excited to partner with Mara Brock Akil and Story27 on our first series, Forever. Mara’s creative and authentic storytelling allows us to present a fresh take on an iconic coming-of-age love story. We look forward to bringing the series to a global audience.”
Forever is certainly one of Blume’s greatest recognized books — and likewise a frequent goal of would-be e book banners. The novel was among the many American Library Association’s checklist of most challenged or banned books of the Nineties and 2000s for its depiction of intercourse between the primary characters. The ALA additionally honored the e book with Margaret A. Edwards Award for Outstanding Literature for Young Adults in 1996.
Akil will function showrunner on the collection and govt produce with Blume, Story27’s Susie Fitzgerald and Erika Harrison.
