Books Sleepovers Novel by Jacqueline Wilson

Sleepovers

By Jacqueline Wilson

Overview

Sleepovers is a popular children’s novel focusing on friendship, fitting in, and overcoming adversity. Written by Jacqueline Wilson and illustrated by Nick Sharratt, the book tells the story of Daisy, a new girl who joins a group of friends at her primary school—each with a birthday coming up and plans for a sleepover party15.

The Alphabet Girls

Daisy quickly finds herself part of a friendship group called The Alphabet Girls, because their names—Amy, Bella, Chloe, Daisy, and Emily—follow the alphabet. Each girl is set to host a birthday sleepover, and as the parties unfold, Daisy navigates moments of joy, fear, uncertainty, and bullying within the group15.

Plot Highlights

Daisy’s Challenge:
Daisy feels anxious about her place in the group and especially about bringing her friends home, as her older sister Lily is disabled. Daisy worries about Chloe, the bossiest girl, teasing Lily25.

Sleepover Parties:

Amy’s Party: Dancing, singing, midnight feasts, and new friendships.

Bella’s Party: Swimming, a specially themed cake, and shared laughter.

Emily’s Party: A picnic, outings to the park, and moments of kindness when Daisy gets hurt and Emily takes care of her.

Chloe’s Party: Chloe tries to exclude Daisy but is thwarted by the others. During the party, Chloe plays a mean prank on Daisy and shows her true, unkind nature5.

Daisy’s Party: Daisy finally hosts her own sleepover, worried about her friends meeting Lily. The night leads to a turning point—Amy, Bella, and Emily are kind to Lily, while Chloe is rude and ends up leaving the party early, humiliated after a fright in the night.

Aftermath:
Chloe attempts to turn the group against Daisy, but the other girls stand up for her. Chloe leaves the group, and Daisy discovers strong friendships with Amy, Bella, and especially Emily52.

Main Themes

Friendship and Belonging: The novel honestly explores the challenge of being the new child, forming real friendships, and recognizing who truly supports you.

Bullying and Kindness: Chloe’s bullying is a central obstacle, but the story ultimately champions standing up for others and maintaining empathy.

Disability and Acceptance: Daisy’s protective love for her sister, and her friends’ acceptance of Lily, highlight the importance of inclusivity and empathy.

Why It Stands Out

Relatable Characters: Readers recognize their own childhood dilemmas in the Alphabet Girls: wanting to fit in, facing bullies, and cherishing genuine friends.

Realistic Portrayal: The book is praised for honestly handling difficult situations—like exclusion and disability—without moralizing, making it accessible to children around age 7+ and older2.

Positive Message: Through challenges, Daisy learns to value herself and her true friends, reinforcing self-acceptance and the worth of kindness152.

Sleepovers remains a memorable read for its humor, sensitivity, and the warmth with which it addresses both the heartbreak and hopefulness of growing up152.