Description
Agnes Florence Emily has strong likes and dislikes. Strongest of all are her aversion to noise and her love of peace and quiet so she can think and write undisturbed. Her favourite place is her bedroom, a haven of tranquility where, at the end of the day, she can reflect and listen to the soothing music of her most secret and special friend.
One night, when Agnes is exhausted and cross after a particularly trying day, something extraordinary happens. Her friend himself – a very famous historical person – appears, to take her on an unforgettable journey across star-studded skies into the past, to a splendid imperial palace that flourished two centuries before. Thus she embarks on a remarkable adventure, hand in hand with her much-admired companion.
Can you guess who he is? Read Agnes’s story to find out.
Edward Glover –
The story echoes many of the traditional traits of autism, its struggles, yes, but also its incredible strengths. There’s a strong emphasis on sound and noise – how the overwhelming volume of the world can make it difficult to think clearly, to hear our own thoughts, or to be present without feeling rude. This is so real for many of us.
Agnes’ long-term memory stood out to me as one of her superpowers something many autistic people share. I also appreciated how she finds peace through writing, a quiet tool for understanding patterns and processing the constant “dot joining” going on in our heads.
Agnes’s need for routine, structure, and space to regulate was handled gently in the book – not painted as a flaw but as a part of who she is. I loved that. Music is a central part of her coping mechanism, and it was beautiful to witness how it helped her regulate and escape the pressure of the world. Her bond with Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart felt more than just imagination it was a lifeline. Music became her compass, her language, her friend.
Riddhima – neurodivergent, past colleague of the author
Edward Glover –
Review by Autism Canada:
The story’s depiction of Agnes’s need for routine, quiet, and comfort in music reflects a nuanced understanding of autism. The portrayal is relatable and sensitive, which could resonate deeply with both autistic readers and their families.
Notes from our Ambassador:the language is appropriate, there are no negative depictions of Autism. the grandfather is the author, the represnetation of Autism is accurate, the magical realism is well done, the approach of special interests is from a soothing and playful angle instead of the obsessively negative context that sometimes happens.
By blending history, imagination, and music, Mr. Glover provides readers with an engaging way to experience the world through Agnes’s perspective. This approach makes the story accessible and insightful for a broad audience, including those outside the autism community, and could spark meaningful conversations about neurodiversity.