* Her own childhood experiences: She often incorporates themes and situations from her own youth, focusing on the struggles and triumphs of growing up.
* Her children's experiences: Her children, particularly her son, were a major source of inspiration, and she often drew on their experiences and questions.
* Observations of children: Blume is known for her keen observation of children and their behavior. She pays attention to their conversations, their anxieties, and their everyday lives, finding inspiration in the complexities of childhood.
* Current events and societal issues: While she primarily focuses on personal narratives, Blume often addresses issues relevant to her time, such as divorce, puberty, and the changing family dynamics.
* Her own imagination: Ultimately, Blume is a storyteller who creates fictional worlds. She uses her imagination to weave together relatable characters and compelling narratives, even when drawing inspiration from real-life events.
In addition to these main sources, Blume also mentions being influenced by classic authors like Louisa May Alcott and Beverly Cleary. She credits them with inspiring her to write about real-life issues in a way that resonated with children.
It's important to remember that Blume's process is not about simply copying real-life events. She uses these experiences and observations as springboards for her imagination, creating fictional narratives that entertain and inform her readers.