What Made Jacqueline Wilson's Latest Book Her Easiest and Hardest to Write?

Jacqueline Wilson, a celebrated author with over five decades of writing experience, has unveiled her new adult novel, Picture Imperfect, a sequel to her beloved children's book, The Illustrated Mum. The story revisits the lives of Dolphin, Star, and their mother Marigold, delving into themes of mental illness, familial bonds, and personal growth. Wilson's writing remains true to life, reflecting the complexities of relationships and the challenges of adulthood.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Jacqueline Wilson has published her new adult novel, Picture Imperfect, exploring the lives of characters from The Illustrated Mum.
• The sequel focuses on Dolphin, who continues to care for her mother Marigold while navigating her own life challenges.
• Wilson emphasises the importance of honesty and realism in her writing, particularly regarding mental health.
• She is known for addressing tough themes in her books, often drawing from her own life experiences.
• Wilson relishes the freedom of writing adult fiction, allowing her to explore deeper and more complex narratives.

Revisiting Beloved Characters

Jacqueline Wilson first introduced readers to Dolphin and Star in The Illustrated Mum, published in 1999. The novel portrays the struggles of two sisters dealing with their mother Marigold's bipolar disorder, showcasing the impact of mental illness on family dynamics. In Picture Imperfect, Wilson revisits these characters years later, reflecting on the realities of adulthood.

Dolphin, now 33, finds herself still caring for her mother, who continues to battle her mental health issues. Living in a cramped bedsit and working at a tattoo parlour, Dolphin's life is filled with uncertainty and discontent. Wilson describes this character as one who "holds things together" while grappling with her own unfulfilled desires. "In this book, I wanted to give her choices in love and in work so she could figure out what she really wants," Wilson explains.

The Importance of Realism in Writing

Wilson’s commitment to portraying realistic and often uncomfortable truths is a hallmark of her writing. She believes that literature should reflect the complexities of life, even when those truths are difficult to confront. "Real life doesn't always work that way," she notes, referring to the expectations some readers have for character outcomes. Wilson's books often resonate with readers, who find familiarity in her characters' struggles.

Through her writing, Wilson has received countless letters from young readers who relate to the experiences depicted in her stories. She recounts a touching moment when a woman at a concert thanked her for helping her cope with her mother's mental health issues. Such interactions reinforce Wilson's belief that literature can profoundly affect lives, making her work all the more meaningful.

Exploring Mental Illness and Family Dynamics

In Picture Imperfect, Wilson continues to explore the theme of mental illness and its impact on family relationships. Marigold's ongoing struggles with her mental health create a complex dynamic, particularly for Dolphin, who often feels like the family's anchor. "She's caring but resentful, struggling with relationships and not fulfilled," Wilson explains, highlighting the emotional toll that caregiving can take.

Wilson acknowledges that while her books touch on tough subjects, they are never gratuitous. She draws a clear line regarding the content appropriate for children versus adults. "If I were to put something as troubling as the whole incel thing into a children's book, it would only ever be implied," she states. This careful approach allows her to tackle significant themes without overwhelming her younger audience.

Personal Reflections and Inspirations

Wilson's own life experiences inform her writing, adding depth and authenticity to her characters. Having married young and subsequently experienced a difficult divorce, she understands the complexities of love and relationships. Reflecting on a particularly challenging period in her life, she recalls a day when everything seemed to go wrong, yet she was still expected to appear composed and successful. "If only you knew," she thought, revealing the contrast between public perception and private struggles.

Now happily partnered for over two decades, Wilson has embraced her identity as a gay icon, finding joy and inspiration in her current relationship. This transformation has influenced her perspective on love, making her more open to exploring its complexities in her work. "I thought the overwhelming feeling of love was a myth, but... it was just astonishing," she shares, illustrating how her personal evolution has enriched her storytelling.

The Role of Tattoos in the Narrative

Tattoos play a significant role in both Marigold's character and Dolphin's profession, symbolising individuality and the complexities of their lives. Wilson's exploration of tattoos reflects deeper themes of self-expression and the impact of personal choices on identity. When asked if she would ever get a tattoo herself, Wilson humorously replies that her "skin's too fragile," opting for a henna tattoo instead.

The Freedom of Adult Fiction

With the release of her first adult novel, Think Again, last year, Wilson has embraced the creative freedoms that come with writing for an adult audience. She relishes the ability to delve into more complex themes and explore the nuances of adult relationships. "It's like getting two bites of the cherry," she states, emphasising her enjoyment of adult fiction's expansive possibilities.

As she continues to develop her craft, Wilson hints at the potential for more sequels featuring beloved characters. Already 30,000 words into another project, she remains playful about revealing details, keeping readers guessing about who might return in her next novel.

The Impact of Jacqueline Wilson's Work

Jacqueline Wilson's stories have touched the hearts of many, offering solace and understanding to those grappling with difficult family situations or mental health challenges. Her commitment to portraying the truth, no matter how uncomfortable, remains a defining feature of her writing. As she continues to create characters that resonate with readers, Wilson solidifies her legacy as a writer who dares to address the complexities of life.

As the literary world awaits her next project, one can only wonder how Wilson will continue to explore themes of love, family, and resilience. Her ability to capture the essence of life's imperfections makes her work not only relatable but also profoundly impactful. Could her next novel bring us deeper insights into the lives of characters we already know and love? Only time will tell. #JacquelineWilson #PictureImperfect #MentalHealthMatters

FAQs

What is Picture Imperfect about?

Picture Imperfect is the adult sequel to The Illustrated Mum, focusing on Dolphin, who continues to care for her mother Marigold while navigating her own challenges in life.

How does Jacqueline Wilson approach difficult themes in her writing?

Wilson prioritises honesty and realism in her work, aiming to reflect the complexities of life while being mindful of her audience's sensitivities, especially in children's literature.

Has Jacqueline Wilson written any other adult novels?

Yes, her first adult novel, Think Again, was released last year and became a bestseller, marking her successful transition into adult fiction.

What role do tattoos play in Picture Imperfect?

Tattoos are significant to the characters of Marigold and Dolphin, symbolising individuality and self-expression while reflecting deeper themes of identity and personal choices.

What themes does Jacqueline Wilson explore in her books?

Wilson often explores themes such as family dynamics, mental health, love, and resilience, drawing from her own life experiences to create relatable characters and narratives.