Lola Rose

Description

Lola Rose is a powerful and emotional story about a young girl named Jayni Fenton, who, along with her younger brother Kenny and their mother Nikki, escapes from an abusive home to start a new life in London. The novel addresses themes of domestic violence, identity, and resilience.

Plot Summary:

The story begins with Jayni’s mother winning a substantial amount of money on a scratch card. Fearing that her abusive partner, Jay, would squander the money, Nikki decides to leave him. The family relocates to London, adopting new identities: Nikki becomes Victoria Luck, Jayni transforms into Lola Rose, and Kenny is renamed Kendall. They hope that these new identities will help them evade Jay’s wrath.

Initially, the family enjoys their newfound freedom, indulging in luxuries they couldn’t afford before. However, their happiness is short-lived. Nikki discovers a lump in her breast, leading to a diagnosis of breast cancer. As Nikki’s health deteriorates, Jayni is forced to take on adult responsibilities, caring for her mother and brother while grappling with her own fears and uncertainties.

Throughout the novel, Jayni’s internal struggles are depicted with sensitivity and depth. Her journey is one of growth, as she learns to navigate the complexities of her new life and confront the challenges that arise.

Themes Explored:

• Domestic Violence: The impact of abuse on family dynamics and the courage required to escape it.

• Identity and Transformation: The significance of names and the power of reinvention in the face of adversity.

• Resilience and Responsibility: The strength found in taking on challenges and caring for loved ones during difficult times.

• Family and Support: The importance of familial bonds and the support systems that help individuals persevere.

Perfect for:

• Ages 10–14

• Readers interested in realistic fiction that addresses serious issues with compassion and honesty.

• Fans of Jacqueline Wilson’s works that delve into complex emotional landscapes.

Lola Rose is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that delves into the life of a young girl navigating the challenges of escaping an abusive home and facing the realities of illness