King Kwong

Who broke the colour barrier in the NHL? A man whose professional hockey career statistics include leading the senior leagues for scoring and for low penalty minutes -- and a single shift on the ice in an NHL game. He was scouted three times by NHL teams before that game, and courted away from the NHL to a powerful role in three different international leagues before retiring.

He is Larry Kwong, a Canadian of Chinese heritage born in Vernon BC in 1923, a hard-working man and World War II serviceman who played hockey most of his life.

Author Paula Johanson explores the life and accomplishments of the China Clipper, Larry Kwong. His story is one of an indomitable spirit who triumphs in the face of adversity and social discrimination. In 2013, Kwong was inducted into the BC Sports Hall of Fame as a pioneer.

"If you're not familiar with Larry Kwong, prepare to be amazed. This game-changing hero should be a household name in Canada and the hockey world. His inspiring story is one for the ages, yet it's still not widely known.

Author Paula Johanson brings justice to Kwong's extraordinary life. All the elements of classic fiction are here, and yet this is riveting history.  We follow the ultimate long shot as he chases the 'impossible'…and triggers a shift in his society.

Johanson retraces Kwong's trailblazing strides with dexterity and grace. It's a mythic journey. From underclass underdog, he emerges as a larger-than-life hero. Transported, we can cheer on King Kwong as he smashes stereotypes and barriers with uncommon skill and class.

This is a long-overdue but timeless biography—a spellbinding tale of a puck magician whose escape from opposition checks and societal chains helped to recast a fairer future for us all."

- Chad Soon, Director, Greater Vernon Museum & Archives and Okanagan Sports Hall of Fame.

Doublejoy Books is pleased to present this fine biography, King Kwong, previously released by Five Rivers Publishing. This new edition includes an afterword by Chad Soon.