In the '70s and '80s, Judy Blume's young adult books addressing issues such as sex, periods and bras were considered very much taboo – and they were loved all the more for it by millions of teenage girls.

Now, one of the US writer's most famous novels, Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret, is finally being turned into a film after almost 50 years.

Image: The book has sold millions worldwide

The coming-of-age story follows Margaret, a young girl searching for answers about boys and puberty – and how to improve her bust – as well as religion.

Blume, whose books have sold more than 85 million copies in 32 languages, has now granted the rights to adapt the story, according to Deadline.

Writer and director Kelly Fremon Craig will adapt and direct the film, which will be produced by James L Brooks' Gracie Films, the online magazine says.

It does not yet have a script or distributor.

Fremon Craig tweeted the announcement, saying: "Thrilled is an understatement."

In an interview with Deadline, she said the story was "a rite of passage for women and girls" and that it was "rare for me to run into a woman or girl who hasn't read it".

She continued: "Every time I've mentioned it to a woman, they clutch their heart and let out this joyful gasp.

"There's something so timely and full of truth and I remember for me that at that age, it felt like a life raft at a time when you're lost and searching and unsure. This book comes along and tells you you're not alone.

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"Women remember where they were when they read it. I can't think of another book you can say that about."

Blume tweeted in August to say she was in LA meeting about film and series adaptations of her books, after years of turning down offers.

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