Lila Said No - by Kiki Frayard (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

"Quirky and entertaining, with a kid- and parent-savvy message." - Kirkus Reviews

A sharp-witted story about the antics of a charmingly defiant four-year-old girl simply delighted to test the will and patience of her well-meaning parents.

Lila regularly says "no" to her parents' daily requests like getting dressed for school and taking a bath. Somehow the tail has begun to wag the dog and her parents don't know what to do. Lila refuses to do anything unless she is rewarded with a treat.

The book tackles this ever-so-common aspect of the parent-child relationship with both humor and authenticity as parents with the best of intentions who do in fact know better, willingly walk into a trap set up by their own child.

(Oh dear! Lila will be late for school!)
So her mother says, if you get dressed for school, I'll give you a treat.
Wonder of wonders...
Lila got dressed right away.

When a strong, willful child finds success, she can wield her newfound power with unflinching resolve. But, as parents know all too well, sometimes big problems require simple solutions.

Lila Said No is one of those rare books that hits just the right note. With its powerfully snappy and repetitive dialogue, colloquial phrases, and spectacular comedic timing, Lila Said No is an immensely gratifying read. While parents will empathize, children will be amused at Lila's silly and audacious antics--ones they know she shouldn't get away with, but nonetheless love to see her try.

Lila's spunk and spirit shine in the pitch perfect illustrations.

Review Quotes

"A little girl's favorite word is "no" in Frayard's children's picture book. Lila's mom and dad say it's time for breakfast; Lila "folded her arms, scrunched up her face, closed her eyes and said, 'NO!'....Veteran illustrator Bennett's offbeat images of Lila as a round-faced little girl with shaggy red hair, pale skin, and big blue spectacles are set against full-page watercolor washes over subtle background details. The hand-drawn style of the text, with Lila's "NO!" and other words in uppercase letters for emphasis, adds more visual fun. Quirky and entertaining, with a kid- and parent-savvy message." - Kirkus Reviews