By Earl du Porter (author)
Paperback Not Available
View All Editions (1)
This book offers two stories in one - a tale of a troubled teenager and the brief respite found from an unlikely friendship, and the author trying to write it. Leila finds school a struggle, navigating the noisy classrooms and students, she feels like no one really understands her. Duke is loner, not coping after the loss of his wife he seeks refuge in the forest.
The unlikely friendship between the two is a comfort for both characters - offering Leila a place to feel understood and clear her mind, and offering Duke a sense of family and easing the loneliness of his solitary life. This story within a story is then encapsulated by the tale of the author, stepping in occasionally to check in with the reader and sharing the imaginary journey to publication with a twist that brings the story off of the fictional page.
The structure of ‘Leila’ was very unusual and admittedly it took me a while to grasp it and I think it could be tweaked to be more effective. I’m reminded of The NeverEnding Story in how there’s Leila’s story but we also gain the perspective of the author who is writing it.
I liked getting to know Leila and Earl du Porter does a great job of bringing her to life, explaining her struggles and feelings. As described this is a coming of age story with a twist and that explores neurodiversity, isolation and friendship. I think that this would be best suited for teen readers and older with plenty to keep readers curious about the direction the book is taking until the very end.
Charlotte Walker, A LoveReading4Kids Ambassador
A struggling author. A troubled teenager. A damaged stranger.
Read the full description
Leila struggles at school. She is different, after all. But nobody understands her.
Nobody cares. Except perhaps one person, deep in the forest. Leila becomes more and more dependent on him, but confusion and anger take over.
Where is he? Will she find him? Can she go on without him?
And most importantly, can she make a success of her life? A coming of age story with a twist, Leila gently explores the nature of neurodiversity and autism, and the successes and failures that may result. And if you’ve ever considered writing a novel, you’ll know all about how hard it can be.
A struggling author. A troubled teenager.
Leila features in the following genres: Indie Author Books , Recommendations
Paperback. Not Available.
Leila was written by Earl du Porter and published by Earl du Porter
©PTC International Ltd T/A LoveReading is registered in England. Company number: 10193437. VAT number: 270 4538 09. Registered address: 157 Shooters Hill, London, SE18 3HP. Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy | Disclaimer
The National Year of Reading starts here. Join thousands of families and schools supporting reading for pleasure across the UK.