The imposing entrance resembles that of a gothic castle, evoking thoughts of a giant butler named Lurch opening the door with a foreboding greeting: “You rang?” However, it is Jacqueline Wilson, a petite 77-year-old woman, who greets us with a warm smile in her sprawling home. As we enter the living room, she graciously serves us drinks, donuts, and chocolate biscuits. I brought along my youngest daughter, Maya, who couldn’t afford to miss this opportunity. Wilson’s novels have transformed the lives of many young people, including Maya. When Maya was struggling with reading, she discovered Wilson’s books about children finding their place in the world and became hooked. This revelation occurred in the early 2000s, around the time Wilson published “Sleepovers,” which quickly became one of her most beloved works. Now, twenty-two years later, Wilson has finally written a sequel, “The Best Sleepover In the World.”
Despite considering “Sleepovers” one of her minor works, Wilson realized how popular it was after asking fans about their favorite books. Wilson, who has written over 100 books and sold approximately 40 million copies in the UK alone, discovered that “Sleepovers” remained one of her top five bestsellers. According to Wilson, the book’s popularity can be attributed to two factors: the widespread appeal of sleepovers among children and the universal theme of friendship and betrayal.
Wilson believes that not having a best friend or losing one can deeply affect children, and she wanted to address this issue in her book. Parents often dismiss these experiences and assure their children that they will find new friends soon. However, Wilson wanted to show that the pain of being alone is significant and that those who face this predicament are not alone. She wanted to convey the message that there is nothing wrong with these children; it’s just a natural part of life.
Wilson’s books strike a chord with many young readers, especially girls, because she understands their struggles and the challenges of growing up. Initially, her books were dismissed as being for outsiders, but Wilson recognizes that many of us see ourselves as outsiders. Since the publication of “Sleepovers,” much has changed, not only in terms of technology but also in societal attitudes. The new book features Lily, the non-verbal sister of the narrator Daisy, in a prominent role. In contrast to the previous book where Lily was passive, the new version portrays her as sassy, communicative (using sign language Makaton), and with a cool disabled best friend. The story reflects the current times, with references to TikTok and the digital world.
In addition to her literary achievements, Wilson’s personal life has undergone significant transformations since “Sleepovers” was published. She has received numerous awards, including an OBE and damehood. She has also served as children’s laureate, experienced health issues such as heart failure and a kidney replacement, and entered into a civil partnership with Trish, her partner of 21 years. Wilson and Trish decided to leave behind their life in southwest London and settle in the peaceful countryside of Sussex. Contrary to the expectations of their friends, they found a sense of community and made more best friends than ever before, bringing them immense happiness.
This idyllic rural setting differs greatly from Wilson’s childhood on a council estate in Kingston. She grew up as an only child in a loveless relationship between her snobbish mother and an angry father. Wilson’s mother had high expectations and wanted a daughter like Shirley Temple, full of confidence and charm, but instead, she had a girl who enjoyed reading and appeared gormless. Even in her 70s, Wilson still defies her mother’s expectations by proudly wearing jewelry, such as the rose quartz ring symbolizing her civil partnership with Trish.
Listening to Wilson speak for just a few moments reveals the extent to which her childhood experiences have shaped her stories. Many of her characters are misunderstood, disadvantaged, and vulnerable, yet they maintain a tough exterior. Tracy Beaker, for example, longs for love and belongs to the care system, but she portrays herself as tough and unemotional. While Wilson acknowledges that her childhood wasn’t as harrowing as those depicted in her books, it was far from idyllic.
Books became Wilson’s escape, both as a reader and a writer. She wrote her first “novel” at the age of nine and continued writing throughout her life. Despite facing rejection and being told that people don’t enjoy reading about ordinary individuals, Wilson persisted. She made a living writing true-life stories for confession magazines but never expected the level of success she has achieved.
As we sit in Wilson’s living room, surrounded by a plethora of artwork, ceramics, toys, and books, it becomes apparent that both she and Trish share a deep love for literature. Wilson proudly points out their extensive book collection, with various genres and editions, including signed copies and first editions. Trish has developed a particular interest in nature books since their move to the countryside, complementing Wilson’s penchant for novels.
When asked about the number of books they own, Wilson and Trish jokingly disagree. Trish instantly states a figure of 40,000 books, while Wilson believes the number is closer to 15,000. Regardless of the exact count, their passion for books is undeniable.
Wilson and Trish’s relationship blossomed through their shared love for literature. Trish, a former bookshop manager, invited Wilson to speak at one of her events after receiving praise from renowned author Terry Pratchett. From there, their connection grew, leading to a partnership that has endured for over two decades.
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