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The Runaway Girls
The must-have new Victorian novel from bestselling, much-loved children's author, Jacqueline Wilson.
Victorian London, 1851. Queen Victoria is on the throne and the Great Exhibition is about to open!
Lucy Locket lives with her father, the New Mother and the New Baby. They sent away her beloved Nurse and replaced her with a horrid governess. Lucy desperately wants someone to be kind to her, and to have some fun - there's very little of that in her house.
Kitty Fisher is a street performer who earns tin for her supper by tumbling. She has always lived on the street and on her wits, with only the kind Gaffer to help her. But now Gaffer is gone, and Kitty is all alone.
When Lucy runs away from home, Kitty shows Lucy how to survive - where to find the best picnic leftovers in the park, and which trees makes the best beds. Lucy learns quickly and shows Kitty her own skills - befriending families to get free meals and singing beautiful melodies for the crowds.
But the streets of Victorian London are dangerous and soon the girls find themselves under threat from thieves - and even worse, the Workhouse!
Victorian London, 1851. Queen Victoria is on the throne and the Great Exhibition is about to open!
Lucy Locket lives with her father, the New Mother and the New Baby. They sent away her beloved Nurse and replaced her with a horrid governess. Lucy desperately wants someone to be kind to her, and to have some fun - there's very little of that in her house.
Kitty Fisher is a street performer who earns tin for her supper by tumbling. She has always lived on the street and on her wits, with only the kind Gaffer to help her. But now Gaffer is gone, and Kitty is all alone.
When Lucy runs away from home, Kitty shows Lucy how to survive - where to find the best picnic leftovers in the park, and which trees makes the best beds. Lucy learns quickly and shows Kitty her own skills - befriending families to get free meals and singing beautiful melodies for the crowds.
But the streets of Victorian London are dangerous and soon the girls find themselves under threat from thieves - and even worse, the Workhouse!
320 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2021
39 people are currently reading
511 people want to read
About the author
Jacqueline Wilson
399 books5,699 followersJacqueline Wilson was born in Bath in 1945, but spent most of her childhood in Kingston-on-Thames. She always wanted to be a writer and wrote her first ‘novel’ when she was nine, filling in countless Woolworths’ exercise books as she grew up. As a teenager she started work for a magazine publishing company and then went on to work as a journalist on Jackie magazine (which she was told was named after her!) before turning to writing novels full-time.
One of Jacqueline’s most successful and enduring creations has been the famous Tracy Beaker, who first appeared in 1991 in The Story of Tracy Beaker. This was also the first of her books to be illustrated by Nick Sharratt. Since then Jacqueline has been on countless awards shortlists and has gone on to win many awards. The Illustrated Mum won the Guardian Children’s Fiction Award, the 1999 Children’s Book of the Year at the British Book Awards and was also shortlisted for the 1999 Whitbread Children’s Book Award.
Double Act won the prestigious Smarties Medal and the Children’s Book Award as well as being highly commended for the Carnegie Medal. The Story of Tracy Beaker won the 2002 Blue Peter People’s Choice Award.
Jacqueline is one of the nation’s favourite authors, and her books are loved and cherished by young readers not only in the UK but all over the world. She has sold millions of books and in the UK alone the total now stands at over 35 million!
In 2002 Jacqueline was awarded the OBE for services to literacy in schools and from 2005 to 2007 she was the Children’s Laureate. In 2008 she became Dame Jacqueline Wilson.
One of Jacqueline’s most successful and enduring creations has been the famous Tracy Beaker, who first appeared in 1991 in The Story of Tracy Beaker. This was also the first of her books to be illustrated by Nick Sharratt. Since then Jacqueline has been on countless awards shortlists and has gone on to win many awards. The Illustrated Mum won the Guardian Children’s Fiction Award, the 1999 Children’s Book of the Year at the British Book Awards and was also shortlisted for the 1999 Whitbread Children’s Book Award.
Double Act won the prestigious Smarties Medal and the Children’s Book Award as well as being highly commended for the Carnegie Medal. The Story of Tracy Beaker won the 2002 Blue Peter People’s Choice Award.
Jacqueline is one of the nation’s favourite authors, and her books are loved and cherished by young readers not only in the UK but all over the world. She has sold millions of books and in the UK alone the total now stands at over 35 million!
In 2002 Jacqueline was awarded the OBE for services to literacy in schools and from 2005 to 2007 she was the Children’s Laureate. In 2008 she became Dame Jacqueline Wilson.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
February 20, 2021
Jacqueline Wilson books were a big part of my childhood. Whenever I saw her name and Nick Sharratt's illustrations on the cover of a book, I knew I'd be in for a treat.
The Runaway Girls is no exception. It tells the story of Lucy who runs away from home after getting in trouble with her governess, New Mother and Papa. She meets Kitty who helps her survive in the streets of Victorian London. Despite having different backgrounds, Kitty and Lucy soon become friends.
This is an enjoyable and heartwarming read while tackling pretty serious subjects in an accessible way for younger readers. It was also very nostalgic for me as it brought back memories and that is why I requested an ARC from Netgalley.
The Runaway Girls is no exception. It tells the story of Lucy who runs away from home after getting in trouble with her governess, New Mother and Papa. She meets Kitty who helps her survive in the streets of Victorian London. Despite having different backgrounds, Kitty and Lucy soon become friends.
This is an enjoyable and heartwarming read while tackling pretty serious subjects in an accessible way for younger readers. It was also very nostalgic for me as it brought back memories and that is why I requested an ARC from Netgalley.
February 2, 2021
In true Jacqueline Wilson fashion, this book tells a rather dark story through the eyes of a child. I enjoy Wilson's style of purposely almost romanticising aspects of the story, in order to highlight difficulties while engaging the reader.
This book is a very fun read for all ages; it is a fun story for younger children and slightly disturbing for older readers but the characers are equally loveable for everyone. I liked seeing Lucy's internal dialogue throughout the book , it made her decisions as a character much more understandable. I also love how well Kitty's character was built, without the story being told from her point of view. There wasn't really much of a plot, it was very much character-driven and so the well written characters did stand out. I was expecting a more substantial plot but it was still very enjoyable to read and the historical aspect made it more so.
Overall, I was not disappointed by thisbook!
I received an eARC and am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is a very fun read for all ages; it is a fun story for younger children and slightly disturbing for older readers but the characers are equally loveable for everyone. I liked seeing Lucy's internal dialogue throughout the book , it made her decisions as a character much more understandable. I also love how well Kitty's character was built, without the story being told from her point of view. There wasn't really much of a plot, it was very much character-driven and so the well written characters did stand out. I was expecting a more substantial plot but it was still very enjoyable to read and the historical aspect made it more so.
Overall, I was not disappointed by thisbook!
I received an eARC and am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 8, 2024
Wow, loved the characters. What a plot. I did hope Lucy had found a new home. Quite believable too. Poor Kitty.
February 27, 2021
Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin Random House Children’s UK and Doubleday for the arc of The Runaway girls by Jacqueline Wilson.
5 STARS- She has never failed me with any of her books since I was a child I have read her since I was a child and I am now 22! She was my favourite Childrens author as a child and still my favourite children's author, she never fails to impress with any books she writes, this was a sensational victorian book which follows Lucy Locket and family, then Kitty Fisher whom is a street performer, Lucy runs from home and then finds Kitty and then she shows Lucy how to survive, how to get the best leftovers from picnic benches in local parks to what tree are the best beds then befriending families to get a free meal! This was such a sensational one by Jacqueline Wilson Once again!
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
5 STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5 STARS- She has never failed me with any of her books since I was a child I have read her since I was a child and I am now 22! She was my favourite Childrens author as a child and still my favourite children's author, she never fails to impress with any books she writes, this was a sensational victorian book which follows Lucy Locket and family, then Kitty Fisher whom is a street performer, Lucy runs from home and then finds Kitty and then she shows Lucy how to survive, how to get the best leftovers from picnic benches in local parks to what tree are the best beds then befriending families to get a free meal! This was such a sensational one by Jacqueline Wilson Once again!
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
5 STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
June 25, 2022
I loved this.
Wilson is a deft hand at writing an accessible, beautifully paced story. The girls and their world are well drawn and I was more than happy to spend my time with them. Their adventures took some unexpected turns, and very serious issues are unveiled, but all the while the growing friendship between girls who were recently complete strangers lifts the book out of the ordinary and keeps despair well away.
Wilson is a deft hand at writing an accessible, beautifully paced story. The girls and their world are well drawn and I was more than happy to spend my time with them. Their adventures took some unexpected turns, and very serious issues are unveiled, but all the while the growing friendship between girls who were recently complete strangers lifts the book out of the ordinary and keeps despair well away.
January 2, 2022
The thing i love about this book is that it is old fashioned yet it is so good! I am not a big fan of old fashioned books,but this one is an exeption. It starts with a rich perspective of a Victorian then it shifts to a poor perspective of a Victorian and thats what make me love it!👌
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 22, 2021
A sweet read as always , but rushed at the end :( but fantastic all in all
April 25, 2021
Jackie pulled the rug out from under me twice and I'm fucking shook. It's going to be the death of me one day.
did-not-finish
August 28, 2025Dnfed because I didn’t like the narration, it felt very much like she was reading the book rather than bringing the book to life
May 12, 2021
A great comfort read whilst not feeling 100%. I will always read a new jacqueline wilson book despite how old I get as they were a big part of my childhood. Found this book interesting and liked the character development of both Kitty and Lucy.
April 16, 2023
The Runaway Girls by Jacqueline Wilson is about two girls with very different lives and is set in the Victorian era. Kitty is a poor girl who is living on the streets of London and is all alone whereas Lucy is from a wealthy family living in a mansion with servants. Lucy’s mother has died and a cruel stepmother enters her life and treats her badly. Lucy feels miserable and runs away. She then meets Kitty the street child and they go on a big adventure together.
I loved this book because Jaqueline Wilson creates a vivid picture of life in Victorian England, bold and determined main characters and a rollercoaster of emotions. I would recommend this book for girls 8+. This is a fantastic book for you if you like adventure stories and historical novels. If you enjoy this book and want more stories about Victorian times you might want to try the Hetty Feather series featuring one of Wilson’s most treasured heroines.
I would rate this book 5 stars.
I loved this book because Jaqueline Wilson creates a vivid picture of life in Victorian England, bold and determined main characters and a rollercoaster of emotions. I would recommend this book for girls 8+. This is a fantastic book for you if you like adventure stories and historical novels. If you enjoy this book and want more stories about Victorian times you might want to try the Hetty Feather series featuring one of Wilson’s most treasured heroines.
I would rate this book 5 stars.
December 31, 2023
I read this with my BFF and at the end we said it was just like a two except we didn’t run away!!!!
February 13, 2021
My daughter (7) is a huge fan of Jacqueline Wilson, having worked her way through a fairly substantial number of her previous books during lockdown. When we heard that a new book was coming out this March, she was super excited to read it!
The Runaway Girls is set in Victorian London - a time of substantial divide between rich and poor and has a similar setting to some of Jaqueline Wilson's other Victorian novels (Hetty Feather.). In The Runaway Girls we meet a wealthy little girl called Lucy, who lives with her 'posh' Father and 'New Mother' (her own Mother died when she was young). Lucy lives in a grand house with a maid, a chef, a butler and a nurse called Mrs Groan but despite her family's wealth - she is dreadfully unhappy. Her original nurse who she loved like her own Mother, was deemed to be 'too soft' and sent away when her Father remarried. Lucy misses her dreadfully. Her Father & 'New Mother' have a new baby and Lucy feels pushed aside by the arrival of her sister. One day she accidentally leaves her wax doll in the window of her bedroom and her face melts; ruining her completely. She is severely punished by her family and starts to feel like no one really loves her at all.
When she thinks she has spotted her old Nurse walking down the street from her bedroom window, Lucy makes a snap decision, deciding to make a run for it and try to escape. Of course it wasn't her nurse but a total stranger and Lucy finds herself lost on the streets of Victorian London scared and alone, Her clothes get stolen by a mean thieving woman and street girl Kitty comes to the rescue.
I won't share any spoilers here, but The Runaway Girls tells the story of the strong friendship that develops between Lucy and Kitty; despite their huge differences in upbringing and backgrounds. When her Father fails to recognise her in her ragged clothes, Lucy decides to stay with Kitty and experiences some exhilarating, heart warming and quite frankly terrifying experiences along the way, showing that true friendship can be found in even the most unorthodox of scenarios!
My daughter and I read The Runaway Girls together and she thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters are built up so.perfectly that you can picture them clearly, hear their dialogue in your mind and relate to all their ever changing emotions, At 7, my daughter did find some of the Victorian terms unfamiliar (such as crinoline and reticule) but this was actually quite educational as she looked them up on google to find an image of what they looked like and help her understanding).
My daughter did feel that the ending didn't quite tell her everything she wanted to know but I believe this is done on purpose, allowing children to form their own view of what may have happened next after the story concludes. My daughter was able to tell me her hopes for Lucy & Kitty and it was lovely to hear her talk about the characters with such enthusiasm..
A great read for JW fans!
The Runaway Girls is set in Victorian London - a time of substantial divide between rich and poor and has a similar setting to some of Jaqueline Wilson's other Victorian novels (Hetty Feather.). In The Runaway Girls we meet a wealthy little girl called Lucy, who lives with her 'posh' Father and 'New Mother' (her own Mother died when she was young). Lucy lives in a grand house with a maid, a chef, a butler and a nurse called Mrs Groan but despite her family's wealth - she is dreadfully unhappy. Her original nurse who she loved like her own Mother, was deemed to be 'too soft' and sent away when her Father remarried. Lucy misses her dreadfully. Her Father & 'New Mother' have a new baby and Lucy feels pushed aside by the arrival of her sister. One day she accidentally leaves her wax doll in the window of her bedroom and her face melts; ruining her completely. She is severely punished by her family and starts to feel like no one really loves her at all.
When she thinks she has spotted her old Nurse walking down the street from her bedroom window, Lucy makes a snap decision, deciding to make a run for it and try to escape. Of course it wasn't her nurse but a total stranger and Lucy finds herself lost on the streets of Victorian London scared and alone, Her clothes get stolen by a mean thieving woman and street girl Kitty comes to the rescue.
I won't share any spoilers here, but The Runaway Girls tells the story of the strong friendship that develops between Lucy and Kitty; despite their huge differences in upbringing and backgrounds. When her Father fails to recognise her in her ragged clothes, Lucy decides to stay with Kitty and experiences some exhilarating, heart warming and quite frankly terrifying experiences along the way, showing that true friendship can be found in even the most unorthodox of scenarios!
My daughter and I read The Runaway Girls together and she thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters are built up so.perfectly that you can picture them clearly, hear their dialogue in your mind and relate to all their ever changing emotions, At 7, my daughter did find some of the Victorian terms unfamiliar (such as crinoline and reticule) but this was actually quite educational as she looked them up on google to find an image of what they looked like and help her understanding).
My daughter did feel that the ending didn't quite tell her everything she wanted to know but I believe this is done on purpose, allowing children to form their own view of what may have happened next after the story concludes. My daughter was able to tell me her hopes for Lucy & Kitty and it was lovely to hear her talk about the characters with such enthusiasm..
A great read for JW fans!
March 7, 2021
Jacqueline Wilson was my favourite author as a child, and I love that I'm able to still discover and enjoy her new books as an adult. This was the first of hers that I've listened to, but the audio version definitely brought the Victorian setting and main characters to life.
Lucy is struggling to adjust to her new life with the New Mother and New Baby, as well as mourning the dismissal of her most beloved nurse. After a disaster with her doll that she accidentally leaves in front of the sun for too long, Lucy doesn't think twice about running away to find her old nurse. Along the way, she meets a friendly street performer, Kitty, and the two develop a close friendship. Although Lucy misses the privileges that came with her previous family, she soon accepts her new street life, happy to have found a friend like Kitty. But friendship isn't always enough to protect them from lurking dangers hiding in the underbelly of Victorian London. They must be quick-witted to avoid the punishments, otherwise, it's the workhouse for this innocent duo!
As with many Jacqueline Wilson books, this tale explored quite dark and serious themes (such as thievery, homelessness, and suffering) but in a sensitive and child-friendly way. It was a well-researched and engaging insight into Victorian times without being too heavy and historical. Kitty and Lucy embarked on a range of adventures, some exciting and some scary, which gave the book a great pace and will maintain attention low spans. The character development was strong, with two very contrasting personalities and life experiences in Kitty and Lucy. This made their friendship even more heartwarming as they sought solace in one another and worked together to earn pennies for their suppers. It made us want a happy ending for both children who deserved happy lives after everything they both went through.
This is a book I would definitely recommend to readers, both young and older, especially those that grew up with Jacqueline Wilson and are keen for some epic nostalgia.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Random House UK for sending me a free audio copy in exchange for an honest review.
Rating breakdown
Plot/narrative - 4.2
Writing style/readability - 4.5
Characters - 4.4
Diverse themes - 4.1
Ending - 4.2
Overall - 4.3
Lucy is struggling to adjust to her new life with the New Mother and New Baby, as well as mourning the dismissal of her most beloved nurse. After a disaster with her doll that she accidentally leaves in front of the sun for too long, Lucy doesn't think twice about running away to find her old nurse. Along the way, she meets a friendly street performer, Kitty, and the two develop a close friendship. Although Lucy misses the privileges that came with her previous family, she soon accepts her new street life, happy to have found a friend like Kitty. But friendship isn't always enough to protect them from lurking dangers hiding in the underbelly of Victorian London. They must be quick-witted to avoid the punishments, otherwise, it's the workhouse for this innocent duo!
As with many Jacqueline Wilson books, this tale explored quite dark and serious themes (such as thievery, homelessness, and suffering) but in a sensitive and child-friendly way. It was a well-researched and engaging insight into Victorian times without being too heavy and historical. Kitty and Lucy embarked on a range of adventures, some exciting and some scary, which gave the book a great pace and will maintain attention low spans. The character development was strong, with two very contrasting personalities and life experiences in Kitty and Lucy. This made their friendship even more heartwarming as they sought solace in one another and worked together to earn pennies for their suppers. It made us want a happy ending for both children who deserved happy lives after everything they both went through.
This is a book I would definitely recommend to readers, both young and older, especially those that grew up with Jacqueline Wilson and are keen for some epic nostalgia.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Random House UK for sending me a free audio copy in exchange for an honest review.
Rating breakdown
Plot/narrative - 4.2
Writing style/readability - 4.5
Characters - 4.4
Diverse themes - 4.1
Ending - 4.2
Overall - 4.3
November 29, 2024
I am incredibly grateful to both NetGalley and Penguin Random House Children’s UK for the opportunity to read and review Last Seen Online. Being selected to explore this captivating story before its official release has been such a treat, and I can’t wait to share my thoughts on it with all of you. A huge thank you to the teams at NetGalley and Penguin Random House Children’s UK for their generosity and for making this advanced reading experience possible.
Victorian London, 1851. Queen Victoria is on the throne and the Great Exhibition is about to open.
Lucy lives with her father, her “new mother” and the “new baby”. They sent away her beloved nurse and replaced her with a horrible governess.
Lucy desperately wants someone to be kind to her and to have fun but there’s a slim chance of that at home.
Kitty is a street performer who earns little by tumbling just to provide for herself. She has always lived on the street with only the kind Gaffer to help her but now Gaffer is gone and Kitty is all alone.
When Lucy runs away from home, Kitty shows Lucy how to survive but the streets of Victorian London are dangerous and soon the girls find themselves under thread from thieves and even worse… the Workhouse!
Now at the big age of 28, I am obviously not the target audience for this book but I grew up reading Jacqueline Wilson’s books and they will forever hold a very special place in my heart.
This book is no exception, her stories are still as marvellous as ever. Even as an adult, this story had my full attention the entire time I was reading it and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Jacqueline Wilson somehow manages to come up with story after captivating story. It’s wonderful to think that a whole new generation of children will be growing up with her lovely stories.
I am not one for historical stories for the most part but this was a really good book. I’d love to know what happens to Lucy and Kitty, so perhaps a sequel is in order.
Victorian London, 1851. Queen Victoria is on the throne and the Great Exhibition is about to open.
Lucy lives with her father, her “new mother” and the “new baby”. They sent away her beloved nurse and replaced her with a horrible governess.
Lucy desperately wants someone to be kind to her and to have fun but there’s a slim chance of that at home.
Kitty is a street performer who earns little by tumbling just to provide for herself. She has always lived on the street with only the kind Gaffer to help her but now Gaffer is gone and Kitty is all alone.
When Lucy runs away from home, Kitty shows Lucy how to survive but the streets of Victorian London are dangerous and soon the girls find themselves under thread from thieves and even worse… the Workhouse!
Now at the big age of 28, I am obviously not the target audience for this book but I grew up reading Jacqueline Wilson’s books and they will forever hold a very special place in my heart.
This book is no exception, her stories are still as marvellous as ever. Even as an adult, this story had my full attention the entire time I was reading it and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Jacqueline Wilson somehow manages to come up with story after captivating story. It’s wonderful to think that a whole new generation of children will be growing up with her lovely stories.
I am not one for historical stories for the most part but this was a really good book. I’d love to know what happens to Lucy and Kitty, so perhaps a sequel is in order.
March 18, 2021
I loved, loved, loved Jacqueline Wilson’s books when I was a child and so I am delighted that my daughter has discovered the joy of reading her books too. When the opportunity to review the new book presented itself, we were both excited. My daughter became totally engaged in the story and there was plenty for us to discuss together. At just 8 years old, some of the vocabulary was a little advanced for her at time, but this presented the opportunity for her to learn too. This is her review in her own words...
“I think this book is about trust because they were always trusting each other like when Lucy and Kitty were at an orphvillage (sic), Lucy trusted Kitty when to run. It is about 2 girls Kitty and Lucy and Lucy ran away from her home , because she thought she had found her nurse but she hadn’t meeted (sic) her nurse it as someone else. Then Lucy met Kitty they kept on running away like from The Great Exhibition, the park and the orphvillage (sic). I like the bit when they performed at The Great Exhibition and the it where Kitty told Lucy about the fairies in the park, but really my favourite bit is ...all of it! I didn’t like the new mother, because it sounds like she was really mean to Lucy. I thought the ending was definitely a happy ending because they joined the circus. I wonder if Jacqueline Wilson will make another book about The Runaway girls when they are at the circus? I would recommend this to my brother, because he enjoys Jacqueline Wilson books”
Thank you to Netgalley, Jacqueline Wilson and Doubleday for the opportunity to review this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
“I think this book is about trust because they were always trusting each other like when Lucy and Kitty were at an orphvillage (sic), Lucy trusted Kitty when to run. It is about 2 girls Kitty and Lucy and Lucy ran away from her home , because she thought she had found her nurse but she hadn’t meeted (sic) her nurse it as someone else. Then Lucy met Kitty they kept on running away like from The Great Exhibition, the park and the orphvillage (sic). I like the bit when they performed at The Great Exhibition and the it where Kitty told Lucy about the fairies in the park, but really my favourite bit is ...all of it! I didn’t like the new mother, because it sounds like she was really mean to Lucy. I thought the ending was definitely a happy ending because they joined the circus. I wonder if Jacqueline Wilson will make another book about The Runaway girls when they are at the circus? I would recommend this to my brother, because he enjoys Jacqueline Wilson books”
Thank you to Netgalley, Jacqueline Wilson and Doubleday for the opportunity to review this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
February 8, 2021
The Runway Girls - Jacqueline Wilson
Narrated by Mandeep Dhillon
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review thanks to Penguin Random House UK Audio and Netgalley.
Victorian London, 1851. Queen Victoria is on the throne and the Great Exhibition is about to open!
Lucy Locket lives with her father, the New Mother and the New Baby. They sent away her beloved Nurse and replaced her with a horrid governess. Lucy desperately wants someone to be kind to her, and to have some fun - there's very little of that in her house.
Kitty Fisher is a street performer who earns tin for her supper by tumbling. She has always lived on the street and on her wits, with only the kind Gaffer to help her. But now Gaffer is gone, and Kitty is all alone.
When Lucy runs away from home, Kitty shows Lucy how to survive - where to find the best picnic leftovers in the park, and which trees makes the best beds. Lucy learns quickly and shows Kitty her own skills - befriending families to get free meals and singing beautiful melodies for the crowds.
I used to love reading Jacqueline Wilson books when I was younger and when I saw that this book was available to request on Netgalley, I wanted to see if they were still as good as I remember - they are.
I thought that Kitty’s character was very well developed as the entire story is told from Lucy’s perspective. Even though they are from very different worlds, Lucy and Kitty become fast friends, and both are very likeable characters.
Rating 4/5
This book is a fun and enjoyable read for all ages.
Narrated by Mandeep Dhillon
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review thanks to Penguin Random House UK Audio and Netgalley.
Victorian London, 1851. Queen Victoria is on the throne and the Great Exhibition is about to open!
Lucy Locket lives with her father, the New Mother and the New Baby. They sent away her beloved Nurse and replaced her with a horrid governess. Lucy desperately wants someone to be kind to her, and to have some fun - there's very little of that in her house.
Kitty Fisher is a street performer who earns tin for her supper by tumbling. She has always lived on the street and on her wits, with only the kind Gaffer to help her. But now Gaffer is gone, and Kitty is all alone.
When Lucy runs away from home, Kitty shows Lucy how to survive - where to find the best picnic leftovers in the park, and which trees makes the best beds. Lucy learns quickly and shows Kitty her own skills - befriending families to get free meals and singing beautiful melodies for the crowds.
I used to love reading Jacqueline Wilson books when I was younger and when I saw that this book was available to request on Netgalley, I wanted to see if they were still as good as I remember - they are.
I thought that Kitty’s character was very well developed as the entire story is told from Lucy’s perspective. Even though they are from very different worlds, Lucy and Kitty become fast friends, and both are very likeable characters.
Rating 4/5
This book is a fun and enjoyable read for all ages.
March 14, 2021
I am pretty sure everyone on my bookstagram is fully aware of what a HUGE fan I am of Jacqueline Wilson and have been since like, forever?? So, when I got approved to read an ARC of The Runaway Girls, 10 year old me was screaming internally and I could not wait to read it and it reminded me of the reason why younger me loved Jacqueline Wilson's work so much.
I think looking back on all the Jacqueline Wilson books I read as a child, I wasn't fully aware of the important topics that were bought to light throughout her books. This book teaches young people what life could have been like for a child in Victorian London, teaching young readers a historical aspect of London in the Victorian era whilst also teaching them about the importance of friendship and being there for one another.
This book was very character driven and the way that Wilson writes really makes the characters come to life. Despite Lucy and Kitty being very different people personality wise, I adored the both of them immensely. Lucy was such a sweet, well-spoken girl and Kitty was not afraid to ever speak her mind.
With the way the book ended I found myself sitting there just wanting more. Part of me is hoping that was done on purpose which could mean a second instalment into the lives of Lucy and Kitty? I really hope so anyway!
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Jacqueline Wilson and Penguin Random House Children’s UK for the ARC in exchange or an honest review!
I think looking back on all the Jacqueline Wilson books I read as a child, I wasn't fully aware of the important topics that were bought to light throughout her books. This book teaches young people what life could have been like for a child in Victorian London, teaching young readers a historical aspect of London in the Victorian era whilst also teaching them about the importance of friendship and being there for one another.
This book was very character driven and the way that Wilson writes really makes the characters come to life. Despite Lucy and Kitty being very different people personality wise, I adored the both of them immensely. Lucy was such a sweet, well-spoken girl and Kitty was not afraid to ever speak her mind.
With the way the book ended I found myself sitting there just wanting more. Part of me is hoping that was done on purpose which could mean a second instalment into the lives of Lucy and Kitty? I really hope so anyway!
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Jacqueline Wilson and Penguin Random House Children’s UK for the ARC in exchange or an honest review!
September 1, 2022
The Runaway Girls By Jacqueline Wilson.
First I would like to say i am a huge Jacqueline Wilson fan and I think her books hold amazing morals.
Now this story begins on the streets of Victorian London and it is about two completely different girls one rich and one poor meeting and becoming the best of friends.
Lucy Locket, a wealthy girl, whose life has been turned upside down when her father marries again and has a new baby. They have got rid of her kind Nurse and instead, Lucy has a mean governess. Everyone seemed to have forgotten about Lucy. She just wanted a friend.
And then she meets Kitty.
Kitty Fisher is a young street performer as this is the only way she can earn tin (money) for her supper. Now she is all alone on the dangerous streets of London, then she had her gaffer, a kind man who looked after Kitty but The Gaffer is not here anymore. Now Kitty must look after herself.
These two girls who come from completely different lives meet and become best friends while they look out for each other through the thick and thin.
And at the end, we meet a character who is very familiar to us. (Spoilers)
This story is an amazing story that is full of an amazing friendships.
I highly recommend anyone who is a fan of friendships and adventure should read this book or even if you are looking for your next book, READ THIS!
Thank you to everyone who has read this review.
BookWanderer- Gone Wandering.
First I would like to say i am a huge Jacqueline Wilson fan and I think her books hold amazing morals.
Now this story begins on the streets of Victorian London and it is about two completely different girls one rich and one poor meeting and becoming the best of friends.
Lucy Locket, a wealthy girl, whose life has been turned upside down when her father marries again and has a new baby. They have got rid of her kind Nurse and instead, Lucy has a mean governess. Everyone seemed to have forgotten about Lucy. She just wanted a friend.
And then she meets Kitty.
Kitty Fisher is a young street performer as this is the only way she can earn tin (money) for her supper. Now she is all alone on the dangerous streets of London, then she had her gaffer, a kind man who looked after Kitty but The Gaffer is not here anymore. Now Kitty must look after herself.
These two girls who come from completely different lives meet and become best friends while they look out for each other through the thick and thin.
And at the end, we meet a character who is very familiar to us. (Spoilers)
This story is an amazing story that is full of an amazing friendships.
I highly recommend anyone who is a fan of friendships and adventure should read this book or even if you are looking for your next book, READ THIS!
Thank you to everyone who has read this review.
BookWanderer- Gone Wandering.
March 17, 2021
I listened to the audiobook of this which I received from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book follows Lucy - a young girl who’s got a new mother and new baby sister who she doesn’t particularly like. Her nurse has also been replaced with a mean woman and all Lucy wants is to have fun. Then after getting into trouble because of an accident, Lucy runs away and meets Kitty. Kitty lives on the streets and earns tin to support herself by performing. Kitty teaches Lucy how to survive on the streets and together they develop their performance in order to earn money for both of them. All is going well until they get accused and stealing and the threat of the workhouse becomes very real.
The way this book ends I would more than happily read a sequel that follows their adventure further. However Jacqueline Wilson’s books have always been something that I could happily read over and over.
I highly recommend this book to people of all ages who enjoy books following friendships and overcoming challenges.
Also the audiobook was great as the narrator made the two girls very easy to distinguish as Lucy had a posh accent and Kitty had a cockney accent. I feel like this helped make the differences in the girls upbringing easier to see and it was easier to tell who was speaking throughout the book.
This book follows Lucy - a young girl who’s got a new mother and new baby sister who she doesn’t particularly like. Her nurse has also been replaced with a mean woman and all Lucy wants is to have fun. Then after getting into trouble because of an accident, Lucy runs away and meets Kitty. Kitty lives on the streets and earns tin to support herself by performing. Kitty teaches Lucy how to survive on the streets and together they develop their performance in order to earn money for both of them. All is going well until they get accused and stealing and the threat of the workhouse becomes very real.
The way this book ends I would more than happily read a sequel that follows their adventure further. However Jacqueline Wilson’s books have always been something that I could happily read over and over.
I highly recommend this book to people of all ages who enjoy books following friendships and overcoming challenges.
Also the audiobook was great as the narrator made the two girls very easy to distinguish as Lucy had a posh accent and Kitty had a cockney accent. I feel like this helped make the differences in the girls upbringing easier to see and it was easier to tell who was speaking throughout the book.
March 1, 2021
I’ve been a huge Jacqueline Wilson fan since I was a wee girl, and her books were the start of my love for reading. When I saw her latest release on NetGalley, I had to request it and when I was approved I had to read it straight away!
I’ve just finished this book and it didn’t disappoint as a Jacqueline Wilson book, with the storyline and feisty characters I adored. It tells the story of an unlikely and intense friendship between characters who have a lot of opposing personality traits. It’s a very accessible book for kids and being set in the Victorian era, it also teaches the reader about some British history too. I sped through this to see what happened next to Lucy and Kitty on their runaway adventures through London, and I can sense a second part to this story based on how it ended. I can guarantee if there is, I won’t hesitate to read it too!
Another great Jacqueline Wilson book that I’m very glad I had the privilege to read, even as an adult. Thank you to @NetGalley and @penguinrandomhouse for the ARC
Out 18th March 2021
I’ve just finished this book and it didn’t disappoint as a Jacqueline Wilson book, with the storyline and feisty characters I adored. It tells the story of an unlikely and intense friendship between characters who have a lot of opposing personality traits. It’s a very accessible book for kids and being set in the Victorian era, it also teaches the reader about some British history too. I sped through this to see what happened next to Lucy and Kitty on their runaway adventures through London, and I can sense a second part to this story based on how it ended. I can guarantee if there is, I won’t hesitate to read it too!
Another great Jacqueline Wilson book that I’m very glad I had the privilege to read, even as an adult. Thank you to @NetGalley and @penguinrandomhouse for the ARC
Out 18th March 2021
March 16, 2021
A Jacqueline Wilson book never does disappoint. Runaway Girls was a historic light read that followed two girls who bonded to be more than sisters.
Lucy, a high society young girl, has run away from home when she accidentally melted her doll and has been punished. She meets Kitty and the two become the best of friends as time goes by. They have their differences and arguments but the series of incidents that follow make their friendship stronger.
The main theme of Runaway Girls was friendship. It was delivered in a sweet heartwarming way. The writing style was quite simple and readable.
I enjoyed Kitty and Lucy's characters. I thought that they were quite well rounded and their opposing personalities made it quite interesting.
What didn't quite work for me was the ending. I was hoping that Lucy would meet her father again and it would be bittersweet yet memorable but I got a happy unrealistic ending. It wasn't bad but it could have been better.
Overall a great read and highly recommended!
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the E-arc!
Lucy, a high society young girl, has run away from home when she accidentally melted her doll and has been punished. She meets Kitty and the two become the best of friends as time goes by. They have their differences and arguments but the series of incidents that follow make their friendship stronger.
The main theme of Runaway Girls was friendship. It was delivered in a sweet heartwarming way. The writing style was quite simple and readable.
I enjoyed Kitty and Lucy's characters. I thought that they were quite well rounded and their opposing personalities made it quite interesting.
What didn't quite work for me was the ending. I was hoping that Lucy would meet her father again and it would be bittersweet yet memorable but I got a happy unrealistic ending. It wasn't bad but it could have been better.
Overall a great read and highly recommended!
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the E-arc!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2022
What a cute book!
So I loved Jaqueline Wilson and all of her books when I was younger. And I'm volunteering at my local library helping kids complete the summer reading challenge. Sounds great right? Except there's like no kids because they're all on holiday or on summer camps. (awh) But, the good news is, that gave me a lot of time to read. (yay!) I was sat in the children's section and my eyes were scanning all the books because I had nothing better to do and this one caught my eye! I picked it up and was instantly like "yes!!!" because the main character is called Lucy.
Overall it was an epic read! It took me 3 2hr sessions at the library to finish but that's not including signing people up for the reading challenge and giving out stickers/bookmarks/pencils. Good to know Jaqueline Wilson has not lost her touch.
Also did not expect the twist about Gaffer!
4 stars for the interesting story and great loveable characters. (1 star docked for the slightly too good to be true plot :P)
So I loved Jaqueline Wilson and all of her books when I was younger. And I'm volunteering at my local library helping kids complete the summer reading challenge. Sounds great right? Except there's like no kids because they're all on holiday or on summer camps. (awh) But, the good news is, that gave me a lot of time to read. (yay!) I was sat in the children's section and my eyes were scanning all the books because I had nothing better to do and this one caught my eye! I picked it up and was instantly like "yes!!!" because the main character is called Lucy.
Overall it was an epic read! It took me 3 2hr sessions at the library to finish but that's not including signing people up for the reading challenge and giving out stickers/bookmarks/pencils. Good to know Jaqueline Wilson has not lost her touch.
Also did not expect the twist about Gaffer!
4 stars for the interesting story and great loveable characters. (1 star docked for the slightly too good to be true plot :P)
March 3, 2021
An adventure from start to finish set in Victorian London. We follow Lucy, an 8 year old who accidentally runs away from home and meets a best friend, Kitty. Lucy is from a wealthy family and Kitty is poor. The story follows the two girls becoming street performers and learning to survive on their own as runaways. At its heart it’s a story of friendship, as the two girls from different walks of life come to rely on each other. Totally heartwarming and Jacqueline Wilson really brings the characters to life.
I was obsessed with Jacqueline Wilson’s books as a kid and this is the first I’ve read in many years. It’s obviously aimed at older children/young teens but I genuinely really enjoyed the book as an adult. It was well written, engaging and for me - very nostalgic!
There’s a reason that Jacqueline Wilson is such an acclaimed Children’s author. I would recommend this book to everyone, adults and children alike!
I was obsessed with Jacqueline Wilson’s books as a kid and this is the first I’ve read in many years. It’s obviously aimed at older children/young teens but I genuinely really enjoyed the book as an adult. It was well written, engaging and for me - very nostalgic!
There’s a reason that Jacqueline Wilson is such an acclaimed Children’s author. I would recommend this book to everyone, adults and children alike!
April 6, 2021
Another great book from my favourite childhood author :) I was swept in right from the start, unable to put it down, the story playing in my mind just like a film. Jacqueline Wilson is honestly the queen of description. I love her way of telling things, in such an easy to read manner but also somehow providing depth and description too. This book is quite heavy but it’s obviously told from a 9 year old’s perspective so it’s glossed over in a kid-friendly way. The characters were likeable and convincing and I like how the book ended on a cliffhanger, with the return of a familiar old face! I’d like to see more of Lucy and Kitty perhaps in a sequel; I feel like their adventure isn’t done yet.
August 15, 2025
I loved it, BUT:
The ending feels unfinished. What happened to Angelique and the New Mother? Did Lucy's father actually care that Lucy had disappeared?
Gaffer's single 'appearance' also felt unfinished. Kitty said the voice didn't sound completely like Gaffer, though it was mentioned his voice was rough due to being unused. I'd have loved if Kitty could have seen Gaffer somehow!
Mrs Turnover is one of the only book characters I've ever actively despised in my entire life! It's awful to imagine that such people used to exist, and maybe still do...
Overall, it was a really good read, and I really felt connected to the characters.
Ms Wilson has once again proved her amazing literary talent!
The ending feels unfinished. What happened to Angelique and the New Mother? Did Lucy's father actually care that Lucy had disappeared?
Gaffer's single 'appearance' also felt unfinished. Kitty said the voice didn't sound completely like Gaffer, though it was mentioned his voice was rough due to being unused. I'd have loved if Kitty could have seen Gaffer somehow!
Mrs Turnover is one of the only book characters I've ever actively despised in my entire life! It's awful to imagine that such people used to exist, and maybe still do...
Overall, it was a really good read, and I really felt connected to the characters.
Ms Wilson has once again proved her amazing literary talent!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2021
I think that 'The Runaway Girls' by Jacqueline Wilson was an amazing book!!! The story line and plot were easy to follow and once I started reading it, I couldn't stop! IT WAS SO GOOD!!! This is really one of the BEST books I have ever read by Jacqueline Wilson and just in general! I won't write any more because I don't want to give it away but I would totally recommend it to anyone!!! I give this book Five stars for its fantastical story, it was not only a great book but also it was set in a different time era to which we are living in now! Overall, great book! Thanks Jacqueline Wilson!
By Evelyn, age 11
By Evelyn, age 11
December 7, 2022
This book is about a girl called Lucy whose papa married a new lady that disliked her. They were a rich family, but Ludy had accidentally did something bad making everyone angry at here. She ended up running away and got lost. She made a new friend and made adventures with her; her friend taught her how to live in the streets and together, they started a whole new life.
When I got this book, I didn't think I would like it but when Lucy ran away it got a whole lot more interesting and I finished it in a couple of weeks. Overall, the book was a great read, and the end of every chapter was a cliff-hanger that made me want to know what happens next. :)
When I got this book, I didn't think I would like it but when Lucy ran away it got a whole lot more interesting and I finished it in a couple of weeks. Overall, the book was a great read, and the end of every chapter was a cliff-hanger that made me want to know what happens next. :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2024
I have been a fan and avid reader of Jacqueline wilsons work for over 10 years, I adore her books! I've also admired Nick Sherratts illustrations, they accompany her writing so perfectly. I enjoyed this book, however, it was not my favourite of Jacqueline Wilsons work. First of all, it seemed a bit aimless in the middle and I was hoping for a bit more depth and resolution regarding Lucy's home life and family in the middle/towards the end of the book. Furthermore, the ending seemed a bit rushed and random. It did, however, sound open-ended, maybe for a sequel. If so, maybe Lucy's home and family life will be addressed further in a sequel.
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