Publisher's Synopsis
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.
