Book excerpt: The Theory of Eventuality followed an unobstructed path and completely changed Cedric Bradford's life within six minutes. Written for all ages, this is the story of a brilliant boy of 13 who lost four of his life's most precious things in a day. Transferred to a boarding school in England, his extraordinary and mysterious talents gradually unfolded to help him restore his self-esteem. Guided by his godfather, also the headmaster, and helped by his exceptional piano skill and his peers' camaraderie, could he eventually triumph and regain his speech, lost through post-traumatic stress disorder? This moving tale is full of charm and humour, cleverly blended with surprising turns of fortune, laughter and heartbreaks – a most enthralling read. ʻA wonderfully uplifting story that explores global themes and the smallest thoughts. It is in its cross-cultural insight that the book really scores… This book touches on a hope that dwells deep inside us all — that out of tragedy and pain will emerge glory and joy. I am privileged to have met Cedric and Allison!ʼ —Mark Easton, UK journalist and writer ʻThe story has a rich cast of characters in a school of lively teenagers… Thank you for writing such an interesting, accessible, moving and helpful book.ʼ —Chris Bale, director of UK charitable organization ʻGreat work, interesting, funny and inspirational. A most original story which takes the reader down a very emotional road.ʼ —Marlene de Wilde, editor ʻMost enjoyable… a real page turner and compelling reading. The writing style is very clear and direct, resisting the temptation to be fussy or literary.ʼ —Martin Sabine, investment banker ʻ… fascinated by the story and stayed up all night to finish it. The characters are so alive I could almost touch them.ʼ —Frank Kam, investment fund manager ‘I got my own “happy hormones” just by reading it. Definitely rated a “very interesting” on many counts! It has a strong start and a dramatic and emotional ending, with music being the common denominator in the search for repair and healing.’ –Jeremy Higgs, founder of environmental investment fund ‘An absolutely fantastic read for all ages. The story is spellbinding and urges one to continue reading. It retained my full attention and intense interest from the beginning to the very satisfying end. What a successful story!’ –Gerrit J de Nys, independent non-executive company director ‘Captivating, touching and a wonderful, heart-warming story.’ –Rainer Stampfer, senior management of deluxe hotel group ‘A novel appealing to all ages… really captured the uncertainty and emotional swings of teenagers beautifully. Very well-crafted and all the characters who populate it are believable and well-rounded. Well done indeed!’ –Vonda Morton, historian and editor ‘… I was touched by the romance of this modern-day fairy tale. The story unfurled with credence and lucidity; the plot captivating and appropriately interspersed with suspense and surprises… it offers readers an altogether mesmerizing journey leading onto a paradise of promises and happiness.’ –Dr. Nicholas S. Y. Yeung ‘A great read and it could have real potential as a film or a stage play.’ –Nick Atkinson, actor and director ‘An engaging story – one can almost see the faces of the main characters… able to capture emotions and “pull the heart strings”. Book is well-researched and has a great positive message… looking forward to the sequel.’ –Kendall Oei, independent financial consultant ‘A classic. Very touching.’ –Stuart Cook, director of international investment bank ‘A lovely novel dealing with adversity at a young age, written in a way that is inspirational and not didactic. It focuses on life (instead of death) and on the youngsters’ courage and determination to live (instead of their sorrows). Cedric and Allison should be models for your readers, both old and young. I hope there will be more to come.’ –Zhang Yi, partner of international law firm ‘I love any form of art that attempts to convey a message and your work certainly falls into that category. It has many of the characteristics of a successful story – tragedy, overcoming adversity, inspirational behaviour and talent, love, and hope. I can certainly picture your story on the big screen.’ –Malcolm Tibbetts, artist ‘The title in your book puts it well. I am in search of words!… a wonderful read and it deserves a much wider readership. There is a great sense of immediacy/ freshness of being drawn into the story line. A book for all age groups.’ –Michael Cuddigan