As the second son of his family living on Wayo Wayo, Atile'i must leave the island as a sacrifice to the Sea God once he turns fifteen. After losing her husband and son in a climbing accident, Alice Shih is quietly preparing to end her life. Atile'i and Alice's lives become inextricably intertwined when a trash vortex comes crashing onto the shore of Taiwan.

EYES is a mesmerizing dive into the realms of magical realism that feels like a literary kin to Murakami Haruki's enchanting novels. The world-building is a triumph, weaving a tapestry of wonder and mystery that keeps me hooked from start to finish. Just like in the best magical realism, there are elements left unexplained and moments that linger in the realm of the inexplicable. But far from being a drawback, this adds to the allure, inviting readers to revel in the beauty of the unknown.

One of the standout features is Wu's thoughtful exploration of the diverse indigenous tribes in Taiwan—despite not being from the community himself. He delves into their struggles, presenting a delicate balance between nature and humanity. It's a perspective that adds layers of richness to the narrative. EYES becomes a cultural mosaic, showcasing the tapestry of Taiwan's indigenous heritage.

Beyond the characters and plot, the novel serves as a love letter to Taiwan's landscape and nature. The mountains and oceans come alive, almost becoming characters in their own right. Wu's prose paints a vivid picture that lingers in your mind, leaving you with a profound sense of connection to the environment.

But EYES is not merely a celebration; it's also a call to contemplation. Wu raises thought-provoking questions about our relationship with nature. How do we live in harmony, minimizing our impact on the environment? Can we achieve sustainability in the face of our own detrimental effects? The novel grapples with the looming question of our existence, urging readers to reflect on the environmental challenges we face.

In essence, EYES is a literary gem that not only captivates with its magical realism but also challenges readers to contemplate our place in the world. It's a journey into the unknown, both in the fantastical and philosophical sense, and a book that lingers in my thoughts. EYES is my first book by Wu, and it definitely won't be the last.