This illustrated nonfiction book for middle-grade readers tells the story of how Larry Kwong became the first player of Asian descent in the NHL. A hockey trailblazer Larry Kwong became the first player of Asian descent in the NHL when he played one shift with the New York Rangers in 1948.
Even though Larry's achievement happened more than 70 years ago, his contribution to hockey is only now being recognized. He broke hockey's color barrier and fought racism and discrimination at every step of his career. From his humble beginnings on the outdoor rinks in Vernon, British Columbia's Chinatown all the way to playing at Madison Square Garden and in the NHL, this inspiring hero has a timeless story for young readers. Key Selling Points
• Larry Kwong became the first player of Asian descent in the NHL when he played one shift with the New York Rangers in 1948.
• Larry had to overcome anti-Asian racism and discrimination at every step of his career, and his contribution to breaking the color barrier in the NHL is only now starting to be recognized.
• The book deals with important themes, including breaking stereotypes and racial barriers and fighting for diversity and inclusion.
• Chad Soon is a teacher in Vernon, British Columbia, (Larry Kwong's hometown) and is credited with making Larry's story public. He also had Larry inducted into three Halls of Fame, generated international interest in his story and gave the eulogy at Larry's funeral. He interviewed Larry and his family extensively for two documentaries. Those interviews are the basis for this book.
• It's a classic underdog story with an inspirational and hopeful message for young readers. This book tells the unlikely story of Larry's life, from growing up playing hockey in Vernon's Chinatown to making it to the NHL. "My dad would have been so thrilled with this and proud…This tells his story in a way that would have made him happy." Chad Soon is a fourth-generation Chinese Canadian. His parents encouraged him to do what he loved: draw, read and play hockey. Growing up on Vancouver Island, Chad dreamed of being an NHL star. He went as far as bantam house-league hockey before realizing that he wasn't going to be the next Larry Kwong. Chad now teaches in Larry Kwong's hometown of Vernon, British Columbia, where he realized another dream: writing this book.
George Chiang grew up loving and playing hockey in Etobicoke, Ontario. George is the composer of the internationally acclaimed musical Golden Lotus and the author of the children's books The Railroad Adventures of Chen Sing and The Pioneer Adventures of Chen Sing. He has directed and/or produced award-winning music videos for his songs, including A World Away (Remix) and Old Montreal, among others. George's acting credits include roles in Eloise at the Plaza and McKenna Shoots for the Stars. He lives in Stouffville, Ontario.
Amy Qi is a Chinese-Canadian illustrator with a passion for storytelling. A graduate of OCAD University, she loves to use vibrant colors to create whimsical and immersive illustrations. Her passion for art and storytelling comes from her love of video games and movies, both of which continue to inspire her to this day. Amy lives in Toronto.
