• Age: 9 to 12
• Grade: 4 to 7

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.

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.

Chad Soon's profile page

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.

George Chiang's profile page

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.

Amy Qi's profile page

• Commended, Junior Library Guild (JLG) Gold Standards Selection

“Provides important context and a valuable history lesson on the experiences of Chinese Canadians in Canada…Qi’s bright, large, and movie-esque illustrations are sure to be popular with children. This real-life tale firmly rooted in history will educate and engage readers, regardless of whether they are hockey fans.”

Quill & Quire

“This concise, absorbing narrative will entice sports fans and nonathletes alike…an informative and engaging biography that pays tribute to an extraordinary life.”

Kirkus Reviews

“Larry Kwong’s life story, a tale of resilience and success despite long odds, is a story worthy of notice.”

Children's Literature Comprehensive Database (CLCD)

“Filled with colourful, iconic images and lively prose… By the time they finish this book, young readers of The Longest Shot will be left wondering: why on earth has Larry Kwong been excluded from the Hockey Hall of Fame?”

The British Columbia Review

“The Longest Shot brings Kwong’s compelling story to the public, ensures that his contributions are not forgotten, and inscribes his presence within Canada’s historical past…conveys a positive message about diversity and inclusion in all areas of societal life, affirming that people should be judged for their talents and accomplishments rather than by their physical appearance or background… A valuable addition to libraries that want to build their collection of sports-related texts or collection of books that portray diverse cultural communities. Highly recommended.”

CM: Canadian Review of Materials

“Colorful and engaging…Great for building reading confidence or attracting reluctant readers…An easy-to-read sports biography with cross-genre appeal.”

School Library Journal (SLJ)