The Laundryman’s Boy

The Laundryman’s Boy by Edward Y. C. Lee, published by HarperCollins Canada, Limited on April 2, 2024, is a historical fiction novel set in St. Catharines, Ontario, during the fall of 1913. This 320-page book follows the journey of thirteen-year-old Hoi Wing Woo, who is compelled to abandon his educational aspirations to work in a Chinese laundry. As he endures the grueling demands of his job, Hoi Wing grapples with isolation and despair until he forms a bond with Heather, an Irish scullery maid who shares his passion for literature.

Readers will find a poignant exploration of friendship and resilience as Hoi Wing and Heather escape their harsh realities through the world of books. Their relationship deepens as they devise a plan to improve their circumstances, but they face significant challenges, particularly from Jonathan Braddock, a powerful figure who threatens Hoi Wing’s future in Canada. The Laundryman’s Boy delves into themes of race, duty, and the quest for a better life, offering a reflective look at early 20th-century Canadian society.