Family, Loyalty & Love

Star Of The Show by Jacqueline Wilson is a most delightful, children’s historical novel that I thoroughly enjoyed. It is perfect for ages ten years and over.

The novel is set in Victorian times and surrounds a family of five children who don’t have much materially, but do have a lot of love.

The children have to fend for themselves. Each has a different talent (except for the baby) and they put their talents to work, bringing in money to support themselves and baby Ada.

The star of the book is definitely Tess. She has the ambition and drive to succeed in her dream. She also has love in her heart, spending her hard-earned money on Christmas gifts for her family and friends. She has a spirit of generosity.

We see the difference between the classes as Tess befriends Master Cedric who lives in a large house with servants. His household staff are warm and welcoming to Tess and her siblings.

Life is hard. Tragedy visits rich and poor alike.

Class divides, as the rich value money and status whereas Tess and her siblings value family and love.

We witness the guts and dedication that Tess has to achieve her dream. The phrase ‘not for you’ does not exist for Tess. She always accepts what she is given but hopes for more.

Star Of The Show is a perfect book to enjoy for anyone. I am far older than the target market but I loved it.

JULIA WILSON