The Power of Michelle Yeoh: Ballet, Stunts, Stardom! Pt 2

 

WH Smith, Singapore

My ebook distributor quickly posted the book on all online platforms including, amazon, apple books and kobo. Sadly, Alkem, the paperback distributor only managed to get the books into the library and bookstores here in Singapore, Malaysia and SE Asia. But he did bring the books with him to the Frankfurt Book Fair. 

Frankfurt Bookfair

Frankfurt Book Fair

I tried getting press for the book by sending it to the only newspaper in town but I did not even receive a response. From my experience the local press has not been supportive at all with the exception of  amazing Melanie Oliveiro of Mediacorp Radio whose encouragement I have always appreciated.

Melanie Oliveiro

I've received a lot more encouragement and support from the media in the US and the UK. 

I donated several hundred copies to a local girls' school as well as a couple of copies to the American Club library. I also mailed copies to teacher-librarians at several international schools.

A family friend also gave several copies of the book to Michelle's mum and one of her sisters. Bloggers Hwee Goh, filmmaker Jean Yeo and Felicity Yeoh, one of Michelle's nieces, of LemonFizzbooks gave the book very kind reviews.

Award-Winning Director, Jean Yeo

Felicity Yeoh

American Club Library

I was also thrilled with my friend and best-selling author, Wendy Orr gave the book a fantastic review on her instagram. Wendy's always been very encouraging and supportive and she's seen me through times when I've been extremely discouraged altogether.

Wendy Orr

Then in November 2023, I was lucky enough to present Prince William, The Prince of Wales a copy of the book.  I also gave copies of book to Christian Campbell, Siwon Choi Manny Jacinto, and Simu Liu.  

Prince William

Manny Jacinto

With some encouragement from my mum and some friends, I entered the book into two local book awards and the Moonbeam Children's Book Awards. I was not shortlisted for the local book awards and I did not expect to be shortlisted for the Moonbeam either. Then, surprisingly, I received a package in the post late last week.

I remember when my former school runner (someone who arranges school visits and distributes books) told me all those years ago: "Your books will never win any awards." 

Everything is in God's time, not ours. It took Michelle 40 years in the business to win the Oscar. And it took me over 20 years to win my first book award. The lesson is that you should never give up (even though you may want to at times).  And for that, I have to thank my mum, dad  family and good friends for always being supportive and encouraging. I also have to thank "Cousin" Michelle for being an inspiration. Maybe one day, however highly unlikely,  Michelle will say that children's author David Seow is my cousin. LOLZ.