As the novel progressed, Sharon’s complaining began to irritate me greatly, especially as she fails to notice Jodie’s growing unhappiness. Although Jodie does behave poorly at times, she is actually an adventurous, fun-loving child who appears to seek negative attention partly because she gets no positive attention from her mother. Sharon constantly berates and belittles Jodie, regarding her individual nature as unsuitable for a young lady, and suggests that she is corrupting Pearl. This creates a dark tone that increases as the novel continues and tensions grow.Įarly on in the novel, it is clear that Sharon, the girls’ mum, has a favourite: Pearl. As the girls explore their new home, Wilson fully exploits the gothic setting by creating a mysterious tower, abandoned attics and a reference to Miss Havisham. Wilson shows the pain that results as two sisters grow steadily apart. Perhaps unsurprisingly then, Pearl soon settles in at Melchester College while Jodie feels increasingly isolated. Pearl, who is increasingly bullied at school for being a ‘swot’ and a ‘teacher’s pet’ is more than ready to go Jodie is unhappy but finally ready to leave. Their mother, distraught by Jodie’s multiple ear piercings, dyed hair and lack of interest in school, decides to move the whole family miles away to live at Melchester College, a Victorian gothic mansion.
The story is told from Pearl’s perspective, but Jodie’s thoughts are usually clear to us through her speech and actions. ‘My Sister Jodie’ tells the story of two very different sisters: Pearl is shy/reserved and her sister Jodie is much more confident with a flair for getting in to trouble. (These are the same reasons why I have never read any of the Harry Potter books.) Obviously I was aware of her popularity, but I was convinced that her books were over-hyped, dull and simplistic. She was also the Children’s Laureate for 2005-7 and was awarded an OBE in 2002. Show More of the UK’s top awards for children’s books.
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