Jacqueline Wilson celebrates coming out as a gay icon

Jacqueline Wilson has expressed her delight at being recognized as a gay icon following her recent coming out. In her new book, 'Think Again', she explores the lives of three women, including Ellie Allard, as they navigate their 40s and the complexities of love and relationships. The narrative reflects Wilson's own experiences, particularly her journey of falling in love with a woman after her divorce. This book serves as a sequel to her previous 'Girls' series and marks her first foray into adult fiction. Wilson's writing has evolved over the years, with her earlier works not addressing LGBT themes due to societal perceptions. However, she acknowledges that the landscape has changed, allowing for more diverse representations in literature. In 'Think Again', the characters face realistic challenges, emphasizing the importance of having alternative plans in life, especially in the context of modern teenage struggles with mental health and identity. The author has a history of tackling difficult subjects in her books, aiming to resonate with children who feel marginalized. She believes in portraying authentic experiences, drawing from her own childhood, which was marked by feelings of not belonging. Wilson's commitment to addressing these issues stems from a promise she made to herself as a child to write about the realities faced by young people. Through her work, Wilson hopes to foster understanding and acceptance of diverse identities, encouraging readers to recognize that attraction can be fluid and not strictly defined by traditional labels. Her journey as a writer and her recent personal revelations contribute to her status as a significant figure in contemporary literature, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community.