In vibrant cities like Portland and Brooklyn—both known for their distinctive blend of self-awareness and trendy lifestyles—there’s a certain charm in how we embrace the artisanal and the local. It’s a landscape where we not only indulge in all things handcrafted, from gourmet pickles to bespoke coffee, but we also engage in a collective consciousness about our choices. It feels as though we’re constantly defending our love for unique, locally-sourced goods against the looming specter of mainstream consumerism. While I share this passion for the local and the homemade, as I savor my carefully crafted kimchi, I can’t help but feel the weight of pretentiousness that sometimes accompanies it. However, I’m not ready to retreat to the quietness of rural life just yet.
In this world of heightened self-awareness, it’s fascinating how this sentiment is transformed into clever satire, much like the popular series Portlandia, or into charming parodies like the delightful new children’s book, Lila. Written by the talented Aileen Harper, Lila reimagines the classic character Eloise, presenting us with a savvy six-year-old who calls her home The Local Hotel—an establishment with “no obvious signage,” as Lila cheekily points out.
In the absence of her mother, Lila is nurtured by a quirky group of urban dwellers who make up her makeshift family at The Local. There’s Finn, her tattooed male nanny with dreams of launching a gourmet grilled cheese food truck, as well as Jasper, the rooftop bar bouncer working on his screenplay, and Zoe, the hotel’s Artist in Residence who moonlights as a dog walker. This eclectic cast adds a layer of humor and warmth to Lila’s adventures.
Much like Eloise, Lila finds joy in ordering food to her room—though her culinary preferences lean towards pizza rather than Eloise’s sophisticated fare. One of the standout moments involves a wood-fired pizza oven that utilizes logs sourced from nearby forests. In self-aware locales, even the origins of your firewood matter! Harper cleverly balances witty observations with heartfelt moments, ensuring that adult readers find hidden gems without detracting from children’s enjoyment. After all, it’s often children who can illuminate the absurdity of adult seriousness. Young readers will likely relate when Lila mentions, “Like most kids, I’m quite scheduled,” and her interests in meditation, yoga, and community drumming circles.
The illustrations by Marco Lin are simply stunning. They echo the classic charm of Hilary Knight’s original Eloise artwork while adding contemporary flair. The pages are filled with whimsical details that capture the essence of Lila’s world—hanging terrariums from local markets, a guitar casually leaning against the wall, and a tender moment of her muddling mint leaves. The characters, adorned in stylish tapered jeans and unique hairstyles, create a visual feast that readers will love to explore.
Aileen Harper’s affection for Lila shines through, reflecting the love for the urban environment in which she thrives. Like Eloise, Lila captivates with her charm and wit, yet Harper’s narrative also touches on the complexities of modern parenting. There’s a poignant note when Lila Skypes with her distant mother, an actress playing the role of other kids’ moms, reminding readers of the bittersweet nuances of familial relationships. Lila observes domestic moments through her binoculars, witnessing a father serving water to his child and a mother tucking them in—an intimate glimpse of family life that evokes a sense of longing.
In moments of reflection, Lila grapples with her place in the universe, contemplating her insignificance yet feeling an intrinsic safety in that vastness. It’s a beautifully written passage, one that I hope resonates with young readers as they ponder their own experiences. Just as the themes of Lila will evolve over time, the night sky remains a constant source of wonder, much like the adventures we all embark upon.
For more insights on modern parenting and home insemination, check out our other blog post here. And if you’re considering home insemination options, you can find reputable kits at Make a Mom. For a deeper understanding of the science behind genetics and IVF, visit the Genetics and IVF Institute.
Summary
Lila breathes fresh life into the beloved character of Eloise, presenting a modern urban girl navigating the quirks of city life and the complexities of family. With humor, warmth, and beautiful illustrations, Aileen Harper captures the essence of childhood in a way that resonates with both kids and adults alike.
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