The Best Sleepover in the World

This is a companion book to Jacqueline Wilson’s, Sleepovers, which was published in 2001. In this new book, Daisy’s wheelchair-using sister, Lily, plays a much more developed and prominent role. She has moved to a new specialist school where she has learned Makaton, a language like British sign language, used by people who have learning difficulties.

This new language has allowed Lily to express her ideas more clearly, though still with considerable difficulty. Most importantly, it has improved the relationship between Daisy and Lily immeasurably. When Daisy is upset because she is not invited to mean-girl Chloe’s sleepover, Lily suggests they should have their own on the same night. Daisy is very pleased but a little conflicted because she doesn’t see how they can compete. What can someone like Lily do that everyone would enjoy? Wilson’s highlighting of those who are different is not confined to disability. The girls’ much-loved uncle, Gary/Gloriette performs as a drag act and the way he interacts with both girls is heart-warming and another celebration of someone who is often perceived as an outsider.

Wilson’s depictions of those who are different are fully realised and there is a welcome development of the characters who starred in the original Sleepovers.

Rachael Dean’s illustrations work well and are stylistically different from Nick Sharratt’s original depictions of Daisy and Lily.

Jacqueline Wilson talks to Rebecca Butler about her new book in our new interview.