A review by librariandest
Eloise: A Book for Precocious Grown Ups by Kay Thompson

3.0

Recently my husband and daughter watched the Disney movie "Eloise at the Plaza" while I was at work. I realized that I hadn't read Eloise in forever, so I got it from the library to refresh my memory. I was surprised by how long and rambling it is. I remembered Eloise as spoiled and obnoxious, but I forgot how the text of the book is like stream-of-consciousness poetry. It doesn't feel like it's really for young children. My 7yo only wanted to look at the pictures and pick out certain notable phrases like "my mostly companion."

Does this deserve to be a classic? It's certainly remarkable for the audacity of the main character. She's not really likable, but I have sympathy for her. She doesn't go to school or have friends or see her mother. She is not a rascal with a heart of gold. She is pure id.

In a way, this book reminds me of Lord of the Flies.