Book info

• Title The Illustrated Mum
• Author Jacqueline Wilson
• Year 2000
• Genre Childrens

Dolphin adores Marigold, her beautiful, vibrant mother. She’s not like the other mums. She has vivid tattoos all over her body, bright hair and wonderful clothes. But Dolphin’s sister, Star, feels differently. Marigold may look amazing, but living with her fiery, unpredictable moods can be hard. As much as the girls love Marigold, is she the right person to be looking after them?

Review

Every time I read a Jacqueline Wilson book, I always start out wracked with guilt that I’m far too old to be reading them but then get sucked into the story and finish it up anyway. This one was aimed at slightly older readers, which was better, although it did mean the story took some dark turns here and there. The bit with the paint, goodness me!

But, it’s the story of an unconventional and difficult mother, and her two daughters trying to make the best of it all. We follow them through a few difficult patches, and then trying to reconnect with their respective fathers.

Standard Ms Wilson fare this, difficult but moving, and with an uplifting ending.

Rating: 4 / 5