Lola Rose
by Jacqueline Wilson, illustrated by Nick Sharratt
Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 9+
Published by Random House, 2007
About this book
When Jayni's violent father starts hitting her as well as her mother, her mum realises that she has to move away. Fortunately, mum has had a win on a lottery card so Jayni, her younger brother Kenny and mum all move to London.
Here they change their names to Lola Rose, Kendal and Victoria and go on a spending spree. Hardly more than a child herself, Lola's feckless mother discovers a lump in her breast and has an operation, leaving the children to fend for themselves.
The story is told by Lola Rose, aged about 10 but acting as the adult in the family. Fortunately she has the sense to contact her mum's estranged sister, and Aunty Barbara comes to the rescue.
Jacqueline Wilson demonstrates her skill by capturing the experiences of a young carer, fearful about what the cancer will do to her mother.
About the author
What to read next
We know that children can get hooked on a favourite book series or author and struggle to find something they love as much, but we’re here to help.
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We know it's so easy to get attached to a favourite author, and when their books are as good as Jacqueline Wilson's, it's no surprise that some children feel like they'll never find anything they love as much. But we've got some recommendations about great stories they can try next - and we want to hear your ideas too!
More books like this
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The Suitcase Kid
by Jacqueline Wilson, illustrated by Nick Sharratt
9 to 14 years
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Bad Girls
by Jacqueline Wilson, illustrated by Nick Sharratt
9 to 14 years
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Buried Alive!
by Jacqueline Wilson, illustrated by Nick Sharratt and Sue Heap
5 to 9 years
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Clean Break
by Jacqueline Wilson, illustrated by Nick Sharratt
9 to 14 years
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Cookie
by Jacqueline Wilson, illustrated by Nick Sharratt
9 to 14 years
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Jacky Daydream
by Jacqueline Wilson, illustrated by Nick Sharratt
9 to 14 years
Lists of recommended reads
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World Cancer Day
4 February is World Cancer Day, which aims to raise awareness, urge governments to take action, and educate us all about the disease and its impact. We've put together a booklist for children of all ages featuring stories that explore the effects of cancer, so if you and your family want to do some wider reading, take a look at our recommendations below.
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Books featuring young carers
Every young carer has their own story of resilience and strength, but they are often overlooked in life and in fiction. Here are a few of our favourite stories that feature young carers.