The feelings of first love are universal and timeless, which is why Judy Blume’s 1975 YA novel Forever continues to resonate nearly 50 years later. Its enduring relevance inspired television producer and screenwriter Mara Brock Akil to adapt the book into a Netflix miniseries starring Lovie Simone and Michael Cooper Jr. But Blume was initially skeptical. “I found out that Judy wasn’t sure that it could translate in this modern era,” says Akil, “given how exposed young people are to sexuality and the topic of love.” The adaptation follows high school sweethearts, Keisha and Justin, as they navigate a series of firsts—first kiss, first time saying “I love you,” and, in Keisha’s case, first time having sex. The 50-year-old book did not shy away from tough topics such as suicide, venereal disease, and sexual assault—all just as relevant, if not more so, today. —Carolina de Armas