Discovering Identity in Shadow and Light: A Review of Lola in the Mirror
When I first glimpsed Lola in the Mirror by Trent Dalton, it felt like an invitation to dive into a world that promised both heart and hardship—a mirror reflecting not only the struggles of its characters but also the artistic spirit that lives in us all. The book’s unique premise, centering on a girl navigating life in a scrapped orange van with her mother while exploring her identity through a cracked mirror, captivated me immediately. I knew I was in for an unforgettable journey.
In a nutshell, Lola in the Mirror is a deeply evocative narrative that follows a girl—whose name remains as fluid as her circumstances—as she grapples with her past and seeks her true self. Living against the backdrop of Brisbane’s bustling streets, her conversations with her mother, who is as much a protector as she is a source of chaos, are peppered with raw honesty and a touch of humor. The relationship between mother and daughter is beautifully complex, filled with both laughs and poignant moments of reflection. One of the gems from their dialogue, “Mum never warns me about boys in cars. My mum only warns me about child protection officers in cars,” reveals the stark reality of their lives, transforming pain into a wry acknowledgment of their struggles.
The novel’s structure is interspersed with enchanting illustrations by Paul Heppell. Each chapter begins with a sketch, lending a vibrant visual element that complements the narrative. These illustrations evoke emotions that words alone may struggle to express, allowing readers to delve deeper into the girl’s artistic mind as she imagines her art being shown in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in the distant future. Dalton’s writing continuously dances between prose and poetry, capturing fleeting moments of life on the fringes, making the reader both an observer and a participant in this compelling story.
One stark theme that resonates throughout the book is the search for identity amidst chaos. Our protagonist’s longing to uncover the “monster” within her is represented metaphorically through her experiences and encounters. Her reflections on the woman named Lola—a dazzling figure in a red dress appearing in her mirror—serve as an external embodiment of her fears and aspirations. “Mirror, mirror, on the grass, what’s my future? What’s my past?” This lyrical inquiry stays with you, eliciting a sense of empathy for anyone navigating their formative years, especially against such tumultuous circumstances.
Dalton beautifully portrays a diverse cast of characters that populate the streets where the girl finds companionship and community, each imbued with their own stories and struggles. The dynamic interplay between the girl’s sharp wit and her deeply felt emotions creates a narrative that is not only engaging but profoundly thought-provoking. There were moments when I found myself holding my breath during hair-raising chases, illustrating just how effectively Dalton immerses the reader into this world.
In conclusion, Lola in the Mirror is a heartfelt exploration of resilience, identity, and the unbreakable bond between a mother and daughter. It’s a book I believe will resonate with anyone who has ever felt lost or incomplete. Whether you’re drawn to vivid illustrations, the poetic prose of stories that confront harsh realities, or the universal quest for self-understanding, this book is undoubtedly for you. Trent Dalton’s genuine care for his characters makes their struggles deeply relatable and, in the end, triumphantly hopeful. My reading experience was enriched, and I walked away with a renewed appreciation for the resilience within us all.
If you’re on the lookout for a hauntingly beautiful story that lingers in your thoughts long after the final page, I highly recommend picking up Lola in the Mirror. You won’t be disappointed.