Wilson, J. (2004). Lola Rose. London: Corgi Childrens books [Children’s fiction: realistic fiction]
‘Lola Rose’ follows the life of eleven year old Jayni as she flees from her violent father along with her mother and younger brother. With a new home, new school, new friends and a new identity, Jayni, now known as Lola Rose, and her family make a fresh start, but their problems soon begin to catch up with them. When Mum has to go into hospital, Lola Rose is left alone to look after her brother, but when the money and food run out, she makes a desperate plea for help to their long lost aunt. When Aunty Barbara arrives, she not only brings food, but the stability and protection they need, especially when their Dad turns up and Mum’s condition worsens.
Focalised through Lola Rose, Jacqueline Wilson gives an honest and, at times, gritty account of the complexities of family life. Readers will recognise the simple, yet informative illustrations by Nick Sharratt, which combined with the age-appropriate language makes Lola Rose accessible to younger reading audience, despite tackling the sensitive issue of domestic abuse.
This book is suitable for readers aged between nine and twelve years of age.
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