Press Kit
Short Author Bio A.Y. Chan is the author of The Legendary Mo Seto, a story about a 12-year-old female martial artist who auditions for a movie role opposite her favorite martial arts movie hero—only to find out she’s too small for the role. She draws inspiration from her own martial arts training in various disciplines, examining the different forms and techniques and philosophies. Find her on Instagram and X @aychanwrites. Long Author Bio A.Y. Chan is the author of The Legendary Mo Seto, a story about a 12-year-old female martial artist who auditions for a movie role opposite her favorite martial arts movie hero—only to find out she’s too small for the role. Growing up in Canada’s Greater Toronto Area, A.Y. read all the middle grade and young adult books she could get her hands on. To this day, those remain her favorite genres. After achieving her black belt in Taekwondo, she explored a range of other types of martial arts, and she draws upon her experiences in learning new techniques and philosophies to inspire her writing. Find her on Instagram and X @aychanwrites.
The Legendary Mo Seto
Publisher Description A fast-paced, high-kicking debut that’s Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon meets Stand Up, Yumi Chung as a young taekwondo artist uses an ancient book to help save her dreams—and her father. Twelve-year-old Modesty “Mo” Seto dreams of being a taekwondo champion. Even though her mom disapproves, Mo can always count on her dad, who is her number one fan and biggest supporter. Lately, Mo has been on a losing streak, and it doesn’t help that she keeps losing to her archnemesis, Dax, who’s much bigger than her. If only she were faster, stronger, not so petite. Mo can’t even lean on her dad like usual with how distracted he’s been lately. When Mo learns about the chance to audition to star alongside her idol and legendary martial artist and movie star Cody Kwok, she knows this her chance to prove to her dad, to the world, and to herself that she can compete with anyone, no matter her size. Unfortunately, Dax is auditioning, too. As Mo and her nemesis progress to callbacks, someone attempts to sabotage the movie set and Mo’s dad disappears—and both events seem linked to a mysterious book, the Book of Joy. The book contains Information on a secret dance-like martial art developed by Mo’s ancestral grandmother. Armed with these secret moves and an unexpected ally, Mo embarks on a high-octane adventure to rescue her father, save the movie, and discover an unexpected joy in being small.
Editorial Reviews
"Action-packed prose mimics the cinematic high-intensity atmosphere of a classic martial arts film, while Mo’s desire to connect with her father acts as a driving force in this adrenaline pumping series opener."
"An exciting mystery-adventure story that packs a punch. Chan has created a brave, athletic girl whose realistic struggles with her identity and what she’s capable of will resonate. Readers will find themselves rooting for Mo’s success and enthralled with the relatable characterization that fills the pages.”
“The suspenseful story begins with a seemingly straightforward exploration of athletic rivalry, familial upheaval, and newfound infatuation, but it quickly spins into a thrilling adventure, complete with secret societies and deadly threats. The entertaining escapades never divert the focus on Mo’s personal struggles, making it a remarkably relatable narrative despite increasingly perilous predicaments. Action fans will get a kick out of this marvelous martial arts mystery and its theme that heart is as important as height.”
“The story is told from the perspective of the vivacious and determined main character, Mo, whose growth from idol worship and self-doubt to confidence is juxtaposed with the mystery of her father’s unexpected departure. The story is fast-paced and riveting, with descriptions of Taekwondo that are so well-written they seem to leap off the page. The Legendary Mo Seto is a touching but action-packed coming-of-age tale, perfect for readers who love action, mystery, and immersion in a good fight scene.”
The Children’s Book Review Full Review
“Author A. Y. Chan's story is a delightful and heartwarming read filled with humor and inspiration and one that the target MG audience is likely to fall in love with from the very first page. Chan's confident narration and humor-packed storytelling captivated me from the start, drawing me into Mo's world of martial arts and movie auditions. The Legendary Mo Seto is a charming tale of courage, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams that will inspire young readers and the young at heart alike.”