"Libraries are my favourite places in all the world!" Jacqueline Wilson

October 6th 2022

About Jacqueline Wilson Known for her popular books for teenagers and children's books, Jacqueline has written over 100 titles, including Girls in Love, The Story of Tracy Beaker, The Primrose Railway Children and Dustbin Baby. Several of her KS2 fiction books have now been made into TV series, and she is a favourite with teachers and librarians across the UK. Her fearlessness when tackling difficult topics such as adoption, eating disorders, depression, and homelessness make her books just as meaningful and impactful as nonfiction books for teens tackling the same issues. Awards include the Guardian Children's Fiction Prize and the Nestlé Children's Book Prize. BOOKS BY jacqueline

In her latest children's book, Project Fairy, Jacqueline Wilson captures the magic that can exist within the pages of a book. When her main character, Mab, is given a Victorian book of fairies by her teacher, she is astonished to see a fairy tumble out! Libraries are a place where all children can experience the same feeling of wonder by reading for pleasure, especially those with no access to books at home. For our exclusive #LibrariesWeek video, the much-loved author tells us why libraries can be a "sanctuary" for us all. 

Long live libraries

"I think libraries are so important for children," says Jacqueline. "I have opened libraries, I've campaigned against closure of libraries, and I've been to many fantastic school libraries. And I've been to a community library near me which, sadly, was closed down. But all the people around fought in favour of the library.

"When I was a child, we didn't have much money. I only had about a shelfful of about 12 books. Now, my goodness, I've got hundreds, thousands of books, and I'm so lucky. But for children that don't come from wealthy households with lots and lots of books, libraries, I think, are so important. And they're also a place of sanctuary, where you can go and curl up with a good book.

"They're fun places where you can join clubs. You can have a librarian recommend different books for you. Mums can read to little children. Oh, they're my favourite places in all the world. So long live libraries."

Project Fairy Don't miss this heartwarming story of Mab, who discovers a surprise in an old book about fairies after her dad leaves home. This is a relatable tale of families, friendship, and, of course, fairies! DISCOVER

📚 READ NEXT: AN ODE TO A LIBRARY WITH AUTHOR FRANCES MOLONEY