We see a glimpse into the child’s imagination and her reasons behind changing her name. It shows that people can have problems and still come out the other side, so the reader feels happy at the end and it gives them hope. I enjoyed reading this book because I liked the way in which she dealt with a number of hard-hitting issues, using simple, everyday language that children can understand, without it becoming too dark. We learn about the problems Mum and the aunt have had and the causes behind this and then we see the family unit growing stronger. This proves to be cancerous and Jayni calls her aunt, who she hasn’t seen for many years, to help take care of them. When Mum’s new boyfriend leaves once the money has gone, she ends up in hospital after finding a lump. We see the roles changing, with Jayni being sensible and thinking about the money, whilst Mum is more reckless and living for the moment. However, the money decreases, especially with Mum’s need to have a man in her life and meeting someone who moves in with them. They change their names (hence the title Lola-Rose) and Jayni feels a different, more glamorous person. As a result, Mum decides they need to leave and they travel to London. After winning £10k on a scratchcard, her partner comes homes drunk and almost hits Jayni.

Jayni’s mum is a victim of domestic violence.

Lola-Rose is written by Jacqueline Wilson and tells the story of a girl, Jayni, her mum and her brother. Lola Rose is a fictional story about a young girl facing many troubles in life, but trying to work through them and keep her family together.

Lola Rose by Jacqueline Wilson