Auto Amazon Links: No products found.
Jacqueline Wilson, the beloved British children’s author, has been surprised to find herself described as a “gay icon” after announcing her long-term relationship with a woman in 2020. At 78 years old, Wilson admits she can’t see herself “rampaging around with a rainbow flag,” but she is “touched” by the title. Wilson’s first novel for adults, Think Again, explores same-sex relationships among other themes and is the sequel to the Girls series. Wilson explains that the idea for the book had been on her mind for years, ever since her daughter asked her what happens to her characters when they grow up.
Ellie Allard, the novel’s protagonist, and her best friends Nadine and Magda are all turning 40 and facing the reality of big decisions. Wilson explains that “for some people, life doesn’t look like what you dreamt of as a teenager.” The characters do not have the happy-ever-after ending traditional in fiction, but the book is by no means bleak. Rather, the novel attempts to portray a realistic depiction of how life might be for middle-aged women who have not followed expected societal norms.
In her previous books, Wilson has explored difficult and dark themes such as suicide, mental health, and domestic violence. Some of her storylines have caused controversy, but the author defends them explaining that her books aim “to show what life is like for children who are a bit outside the system and feel they don’t belong and are unhappy for some reason.” Wilson’s own life has also been an inspiration to her writing – she promises to write about her childhood experiences if she ever got a chance. “When I was 12 I wrote in a diary that if I ever wrote children’s books, I would put all that in because I thought it’s very much part of life.”
Wilson’s open, honest storytelling has made her an inspiration and role model for many readers, and her willingness to tackle difficult subjects has garnered her a dedicated following. With Think Again, Wilson again demonstrates her ability to tell stories that speak to people from all backgrounds and experiences. By exploring the complexities of middle age and same-sex relationships, Wilson continues to push the boundaries of what children’s and adult fiction can achieve
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
Auto Amazon Links: No products found.