The Illustrated Mum is a poignant and sensitive novel exploring the complexities of living with a parent who has bipolar disorder. The story is told from the perspective of ten-year-old Dolphin, who lives with her artistic, bohemian, and heavily tattooed mother, Marigold, and her older sister, Star. Marigold's colorful creativity contrasts sharply with her unpredictable mood swings and emotional instability. As Marigold’s mental health deteriorates, Star begins to withdraw, leaving Dolphin to shoulder the heavy burden of responsibility. Wilson tackles the difficult subject matter with honesty and compassion, portraying the deep love between the children and their mother, the pain of neglect, and the struggle to seek help when love isn't enough to fix the problems.
