Discussion Guide for

Just as Long as We’re Together

By Judy Blume

1. Discuss the structure of the novel. The story is told in first person from Stephanie’s point of view. Identify the other characters. What is their role in Stephanie’s story?

2. Stephanie and Rachel have been friends for a long time. Stephanie then befriends Alison Monceau, the new girl in town. Debate whether Rachel is jealous of Stephanie and Alison’s friendship. Cite evidence to support your thoughts.

3. The girls are beginning seventh grade. How are their feelings of excitement and anxiety similar to those of most kids entering a new school? How did you feel before school started this year?

4. Why does Alison tell the girls that her dog, Maizie, can talk? She eventually reveals the truth to Stephanie but wants to tell Rachel when “the time is right.” (Chapter fifteen) When is the time right for Alison? How does Rachel respond?

5. The girls discover that Alison’s mother is the actress Gena Farrell. Rachel tells Alison, “‘You sound so well-adjusted.’” (Chapter nine) Why is she surprised that Alison is well-adjusted rather than high-strung?

6. Stephanie says that Alison knows how to be popular. What is her secret to popularity? What interferes with Stephanie’s popularity? Discuss whether being the best at everything is more important to Rachel than being popular. What do you think being popular means at your school?

7. Explain why Rachel calls Stephanie an “eternal optimist.” (Chapter five) What specific scenes suggest Rachel’s assessment is correct? How does Stephanie discover that her mother shares the same trait?

8. What is the first hint that Stephanie’s parents are separated? Why can’t Stephanie see that her parents’ marriage is in trouble? Stephanie’s mom says that their marital problems are between them. Discuss whether you think Stephanie and Bruce’s parents should have been more honest with their children.

9. Describe Stephanie and Bruce’s trip to see their dad in California at Christmas. Who is Iris, and how does Stephanie react to her? What is her mom’s reaction when Stephanie tells her about Iris?

10. Stephanie writes a paper for Mr. Diamond’s class titled, “I Used to Be . . . But I’m Not Anymore.” What might she have written that caused Mr. Diamond to recommend she see Mrs. Balaban, the school counselor? How might Stephanie describe her first meeting with Mrs. Balaban? Why is it difficult to help someone when they don’t know they need help?

— Activity Idea: Write your own “I used to be __, but I’m not anymore” paper.

11. What causes the feud between Stephanie and Rachel? Explain what Mrs. Robinson means when she says Rachel depends on Stephanie. How does this surprise Stephanie? Discuss how the girls become friends again.

12. Judy Blume says that the book is funny in places. What parts of the book did you find humorous?

13. Explain the title of the book and how it relates to the story.

Guide written by Pat Scales, a retired middle and high school librarian who is currently a children’s and young adult literature consultant and specializes in curriculum and free speech issues.

This guide has been provided by Simon & Schuster for classroom, library, and reading group use. It may be reproduced in its entirety or excerpted for these purposes. For more Simon & Schuster guides and classroom materials, please visit https://www.simonandschuster.net/m/prek12-teachers-librarians/teaching-resources