In Of the Noble and Great Ones, we accompany the protagonist, Juke—an individual living with autism—through his trials and tribulations. He navigates the ebbs and flows of life, coping with violent tantrums and facing unpalatable maltreatment, all while grappling with pressing existential questions. Juke’s reality teeters on the brink of upheaval as he desperately seeks answers, primarily to his recurrent traumatic experiences. Yet, amidst this chaos, there lurks a glimmer of hope for our protagonist.

The narrative breaks the bounds of reality, immersing Juke—and subsequently, the readers—in the realm of lucid dreams. In this dreamland, Juke finds himself unwittingly involved in an epic battle between good and evil, which gradually starts to weave answers to his life’s perplexing questions. As the tale unfolds, we are left wondering—will these dreamland experiences bring clarity to Juke’s life? How will he evolve through this tumultuous journey?

Of the Noble and Great Ones artfully interweaves elements of reality with the supernatural, presenting an intricate tale of a teenager that allows readers to delve deep into his psyche, insights, and experiences. When I first embarked on this literary journey, I must confess, I was unsure of what lay ahead. However, as the narrative unfurled, I realized I was privy to the inner workings of a unique, special-needs mind, which brought a sense of coherence to the initial ambiguity. This striking perspective is one of the book’s many compelling attributes—it invites you to see the world through the lens of the protagonist, fostering a profound sense of empathy and understanding.

The author’s word choice provides a captivating contrast with Juke’s identity. Sophisticated expressions interlace the narrative, underscoring the complexity of the human mind and illustrating how external personas may mask the myriad layers within. This is a poignant reminder of the vast cognitive capabilities that we all possess.

Throughout the novel, a universal truth resonates—our fundamental needs as humans remain the same, regardless of our mental states. We all yearn for acknowledgment, for our voices to be heard, and for love. Recognizing this allows us to recalibrate our approach toward others, especially those with special needs. The initial wave of confusion eventually lands you on a shore of introspection, a testament to the book’s impact.

Of the Noble and Great Ones is a deeply emotional and compelling read. If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, a narrative that challenges perceptions and invites reflection, this book is worth exploring.

Pages: 380 | ISBN : 979-8-9878271-0-9