“Open: A Boy’s Wayang Adventure is an interesting depiction of Benjamin, a boy with autism and his journey discovering the joy of the Chinese performing art, wayang. At a deeper level, the story reflects how Benjamin’s parents care for and support him as they too embark on their life journeys of self discovery. […] I congratulate the writer and the publisher for the production of this book.”

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“For someone who does not have an autistic child/not work with autistic children but simply using her powers of observation of her friend’s child who has autism, I am amazed at author Eva’s sharp observations which cement the characteristics of Open.
Many descriptions about Open as an autistic child are spot-on. Such as the use of visual cue cards by Open’s father, as well as the sensations brought on by food for an autistic child.
I am very touched by some moving lines that Eva uses, such as that to describe how Open’s father teaches eye contact (“Papa tells me that my eyes shine with light too and that I must remember to look people in the eye so that they can see my light.” – pp. 22).”

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“Open offers the reader a convincing and an unadulterated insight into the world of a special child. The intellect of the 10-year-old protagonist, interspersed with his struggles to interact with others around him and to express his innermost feelings and thoughts, draws the reader in at every juncture. It is a book that has to be read by everyone–adults, parents, children, teenagers and educators alike.”

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 “Wonderfully crafted. An eye opening insight into the world of Autism Spectrum Disorders through the eyes of a child.”

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“In a concise and readable work, the author has brought together a meeting of two worlds. The rich and yet historical world of Chinese opera in the setting of a Singapore public school, the thoughts, feelings and interaction of a special needs individual meets that of a neurotypical world. The negativity and prejudices of some so called normal individuals are balanced by the understanding and sympathy of others. This story, though fictional, portrays some of the trials and tribulations of a special needs individual and debunks the misconception that such individuals usually lack knowledge acquisition or feelings. A commendable effort.”

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“Open: A Boy’s Wayang Adventure is a beautiful and fun story about a young boy, nicknamed Open, on a journey of self-discovery, set amidst the backdrop of a school production of The Monkey King.

I enjoyed hearing the story from Open’s perspective. This immediately drew me in, just as it would young readers. Open’s limits are tested as the story develops with the result of him gaining some lovely, new friendships.

As a qualified SEN teacher (and author), I felt that the story was a genuine reflection of what life can be like for some young people with autism. Eva has managed to capture insightful nuances of the struggles and joys of someone on the spectrum. She has clearly researched the subject very well.”

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