@bluefalafs's post on Artfol
Rent a Bridesmaid
Author: Jacqueline Wilson
Rating: 4/5
Synopsis: When Tilly comes into possession of a bridesmaid dress, she takes the opportunity to fulfill her dream of being a bridesmaid by renting herself out to soon-to-be-married couples
I used to read Jacqueline Wilson's books all the time when I was a kid, so when I saw this at a community library I immediately brought it home to read! I'm glad to say that Jacqueline Wilson hasn't lost her magic after all these years, the book was so lighthearted yet heartfelt, and although it's aimed primarily towards children, I feel that it's quite appropriate for adults (specifically parents) to read as well.
Though it may seem like something silly and fun on the surface, the story has deeper themes as well. A big reason why Tilly loves weddings so much is because her parents never got married and are now separated, and she believes that if they only got married (and she was their bridesmaid) everything would be fixed. It's kind of heartbreaking watching her longing for her mother to come back even though it's clear that her mother doesn't care enough to even get in touch regularly. I even teared up when Tilly finally realised it
As for the weddings, I loved that they were positive experiences for her! Her father (rightfully) warns that not everyone responding to her ad may have good intentions, but the people who did rent her were very sweet, and even came to feel like her own family.
(also, I loved that there was a gay couple included!!)
Tldr; This was a great book, and although it definitely reads very young at times (Tilly is like 9 or 10?) it didn't stop me from enjoying it
Mar 10, 2025
Author: Jacqueline Wilson
Rating: 4/5
Synopsis: When Tilly comes into possession of a bridesmaid dress, she takes the opportunity to fulfill her dream of being a bridesmaid by renting herself out to soon-to-be-married couples
I used to read Jacqueline Wilson's books all the time when I was a kid, so when I saw this at a community library I immediately brought it home to read! I'm glad to say that Jacqueline Wilson hasn't lost her magic after all these years, the book was so lighthearted yet heartfelt, and although it's aimed primarily towards children, I feel that it's quite appropriate for adults (specifically parents) to read as well.
Though it may seem like something silly and fun on the surface, the story has deeper themes as well. A big reason why Tilly loves weddings so much is because her parents never got married and are now separated, and she believes that if they only got married (and she was their bridesmaid) everything would be fixed. It's kind of heartbreaking watching her longing for her mother to come back even though it's clear that her mother doesn't care enough to even get in touch regularly. I even teared up when Tilly finally realised it
As for the weddings, I loved that they were positive experiences for her! Her father (rightfully) warns that not everyone responding to her ad may have good intentions, but the people who did rent her were very sweet, and even came to feel like her own family.
(also, I loved that there was a gay couple included!!)
Tldr; This was a great book, and although it definitely reads very young at times (Tilly is like 9 or 10?) it didn't stop me from enjoying it
Mar 10, 2025#book
#bookreview
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