"The Illustrated Mum" is a children's novel written by Jacqueline Wilson. It tells the story of a young girl named Dolphin who lives with her mother, Marigold, a vibrant but troubled woman covered in tattoos. The story explores their close yet complicated relationship as Dolphin navigates the challenges of her mother's mental health issues. Set in England, the book highlights themes of love, family, and acceptance. Dolphin's journey reveals her struggles to understand her mother's behavior while also seeking her own identity. The novel is illustrated by Nick Sharratt, adding a visual element that complements the narrative.