Layla Builds a Tree House is a children’s book that focuses on moulding fresh minds of children and especially girls into thinking that their roles are limitless and that they are not restricted to being pretty princesses and damsels in distress, ready to be saved by men. It aims to enforce the idea of being independent, irrespective of gender differences.
We are all aware of our media and culture going against individualism. It promotes sexism and it makes it hard for a society to grow in a healthy way with equality and tolerance. It focuses on gender roles and sometimes parents or guardians become oblivious to how it affects their children and the society. They become victims along with their children. We need to step up and bring a positive change in what we have been lead to believe, is the ’norm’ of society. It is not normal when someone is discouraged or deprecated due to their gender. Of course we see there is discouragement and inequality due to other aspects such as, race, religion, colour as well but this book in particular focuses on gender. I am trying to take baby steps and focus on one issue at a time. If this book gets published and it all depends on you, I will aim at other issues as well.
The story I’m writing is about a girl, named Layla who is a little different than the rest. She is curious and likes to explore the world. She wants to know how things work. She likes all colours and sometimes wears them all at the same time. She works on different projects and at times, fails as well, but never stops trying.
There are three girls that live on Layla’s block. They dress up in fairy costumes and like to play with their dolls. They think Layla is odd.
The story takes us into Layla’s world of exploration and creation. She tries to build different things that get the attention of those three girls, making them interested in Layla’s dreams.
Since this story is still in its initial rough sketch, you are encouraged to add ideas and comments that you might want to see in the book.