Sipping Dom Pérignon Through a Straw

"Written in a funny, accessible, and remarkable voice that will captivate readers, Ndopu’s book will resonate with disabled and nondisabled readers alike. . . .Sipping Dom Pérignon through a Straw is a vital window into not taking no for an answer and encourages disabled readers to pursue their dreams.”
 
 

“Wryly detailing the costs and complications of his attendance at Oxford, Ndopu shines a light on ableism both conscious and unconscious. . . This raw yet triumphant tale should be required reading.”  

"As Ndopu deftly shares his life story, he chronicles memorable moments of awe and inspiration as well as dismay and embarrassment at the persistent ways that ableism has made his rise so difficult. One of Ndopu’s greatest strengths as an author is his ability to carry any reader as a collaborator and confidant without neglecting the appropriate indictments of the countless slights, assumptions, and micro- and macroaggressions that he faces. . . .  An unflinching memoir of determined self-actualization.”
 

"South African disability rights activist Eddie Ndopu performs his memoir, bringing his story to life with his thoughtful narration. . . Ndopu’s narration captures his despair at encountering even more ableist systemic barriers to his education. But listeners will also hear steel enter his voice as he recounts how he pushed back, insisting on his rights as a disabled person and advocating for equitable accommodations." 

“Eddie Ndopu’s hands aren’t of extensive use to him. He has defied expectations for his whole extraordinary life. He studied at Oxford; he is now one of the world’s leading advocates for disabled people. His one good finger is governed by one very fine brain."

"This witty and inspiring memoir digs into the highs and lows of one man’s life while navigating ableism. . . The struggles in Sipping Dom Pérignon Through a Straw will make you wonder what it will take to create a truly accessible world for all, and the strength Ndopu took from them will make you want to raise a glass of cold champagne in his honor."

“There are many ‘inspirational’ memoirs by disabled people – tales of ‘overcoming’ disability – of overpowering insurmountable odds. Thankfully, Ndopu’s memoir doesn’t fit this bill at all. Sipping Dom Perignon Through a Straw is searing and intimate.”

“An assertive, loud call for change at every level.”

“Sipping Dom Perignon Through a Straw is essential reading for anyone who’s ever wondered how they can do right and do better by disabled people. Eddie has provided a template for allyship while remaining uncompromising in his self-worth. He is a masterful writer poised for even more great success.”

“I have seen Eddie when he was still a teenager and walked alongside him as he demonstrated to the world that one need not yield their extraordinary power to the limits placed on their ability. Now, as an author, Eddie brings us into his reality—one filled fun and love yet oversaturated with barriers and challenges. Nestled in these expressive pages is a crucial lesson on the importance of humanity, the need for radical, comprehensive person-first care.” 

“As this gripping tale unfolds, readers will fall in love with the fabulous Eddie Ndopu as they witness the power of sustained advocacy and the beauty of community. Sparkling with wit and wisdom, Eddie Ndopu’s book is a gift for us all.” 

“An incredible and riveting story that leaves an indelible mark on your heart. Eddie Ndopu invites us to imagine a more audacious life—and then to live it. How lucky are we to witness this kind of genius, this kind of glamor"

“Eddie Ndopu is a brilliant, courageous and imaginative soul with the kind of conviction that can change the world. We will all benefit from his story.”

“With unflinching honesty and vulnerability, Ndopu’s jaw-dropping story serves as a clarion call for a more inclusive and compassionate world. Prepare to be moved, enlightened, and profoundly touched by the extraordinary life and wisdom of Eddie Ndopu.”  

Sipping Dom Pérignon Through aStraw not only highlights the injustices and dehumanization that disabled people face daily, but illuminates the need for amplifying disabled voices and disabled self-advocacy. Eddie’s radical transparency about his triumphs in the face of lifelong systemic oppression is profound. 

Publishers Weekly’s Books with Disability Representation