Lola in the Mirror by Trent Dalton
A dazzling, heartbreaking novel of survival, friendship, and the fierce magic of storytelling.
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Why people are buying it
From the bestselling author of Boy Swallows Universe comes Lola in the Mirror, a vivid and visceral novel about a homeless girl and her mother living in a stolen purple Toyota Corolla. Blending gritty realism with magical realism, Trent Dalton delivers a powerful narrative of resilience, love, and humanity on the margins of society. It is an emotional rollercoaster that lingers long after turning the final page.
- Written by acclaimed bestselling author Trent Dalton
- Unique blend of gritty realism and magical realism
- Deeply moving exploration of homelessness and resilience
- Vividly captures the sights and sounds of Brisbane
- Unforgettable, fiercely protective female protagonists
What it does well
- Captivating, lyrical prose
- Richly developed, empathetic characters
- Powerful emotional resonance
- Unique narrative voice
What to weigh
- Contains heavy, dark themes and triggers
- Pacing can occasionally feel meandering
- Magical realism elements may not appeal to strict realists
Should you buy it?
Lola in the Mirror is a triumphant, emotionally charged novel that cements Trent Dalton's status as a master storyteller. It is entirely worth reading for anyone who appreciates empathetic, beautifully crafted fiction, though readers should prepare for a heavy emotional journey.
Specifications
| General | |
|---|---|
| Author | Trent Dalton |
| Original Publisher | HarperCollins Publishers |
| Publication Date | October 2023 |
| Language | English |
| Physical & Digital | |
| Hardcover ISBN | 9781460763262 |
| Paperback Availability | Yes |
| Audiobook Narrator | Full Cast / Author Read |
| Average Length | Medium-Long (450+ pages) |
| Content | |
| Genre | Literary Fiction, Magical Realism |
| Setting | Brisbane, Australia |
| Themes | Survival, Homelessness, Mother-daughter bonds, Hope, Identity |
| Target Audience | Adult fiction readers, book clubs |
From published manufacturer information. Check the store listing for the exact variant.
How it compares
| Product | Author Style | Emotional Depth | Setting | Primary Theme | Format Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lola in the Mirror by Trent Dalton | Lyrical & Gritty | Very High | Brisbane, Australia | Homelessness & Survival | Hardcover, Paperback, Audio |
| Alt 1 | Magical & Nostalgic | Very High | Brisbane Suburbs | Coming of Age | Hardcover, Paperback, Audio |
| Alt 2 | Epic & Atmospheric | High | Western Australia | Family & Home | Hardcover, Paperback, Audio |
Worth a look instead
Questions buyers ask
Is Lola in the Mirror a sequel to Boy Swallows Universe?
No, it is a standalone novel with completely different characters and a unique storyline, though it shares Trent Dalton's signature writing style.
What genres does the book cover?
It primarily falls under contemporary literary fiction and magical realism.
Is the book suitable for young adults?
It contains mature themes including homelessness, violence, and drug use, making it better suited for adult readers.
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