Today we’d like to introduce you to Tory Envy
Hi Tory, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
My journey began after my children were born when I realized the importance of passing down the Hmong language and culture to them. As a parent, I wanted to ensure they were connected to their roots, but I also recognized that I needed to strengthen my proficiency in the Hmong language before I could effectively teach them. I embarked on a creative endeavor to tackle this challenge: writing Hmong and English bilingual children’s books. It seemed fun and engaging for me and my children to learn together. Through storytelling, we could explore the intricacies of the Hmong language while enjoying quality time together.
However, my motivation extended beyond personal enrichment. Growing up, I often felt a sense of invisibility in mainstream media and literature due to the lack of representation of Hmong culture. This absence left me yearning for stories reflecting my experiences and heritage.
Driven by this desire for cultural representation, I embarked on my writing journey with a dual purpose: to educate my children and to fill the void of Hmong representation in children’s literature. Each book I write is a labor of love for my family and a contribution to the broader cultural landscape, where Hmong children can finally see themselves reflected and celebrated.
Through dedication, perseverance, and a passion for storytelling, I’ve reached where I am today—a proud Hmong-American author of Hmong and English bilingual children’s books, making a meaningful impact on my children’s lives and the broader Hmong community.
Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
The road to where I am today has been anything but smooth, filled with challenges and obstacles that have tested my determination and resolve. One of the biggest struggles I faced was the necessity of teaching myself how to read and write in Hmong before I could even begin writing my books. This journey of self-education continues to this day as I strive to deepen my understanding and proficiency in the language. I’ve even taken Hmong language classes to enhance my skills further.
Another significant hurdle was learning the ins and outs of self-publishing. It was a steep learning curve, and I made numerous mistakes. From formatting issues to distribution challenges, each obstacle presented a valuable lesson in perseverance and adaptability.
One of my greatest fears was how the Hmong community would receive my bilingual children’s books. Would they embrace them? Would they find value in the stories I was telling? The support and encouragement I received from the community surpassed my expectations. They were receptive to my books and voiced their appreciation for the representation of Hmong culture and the bilingual format. Their enthusiasm and acknowledgment of the community’s need for more diverse literature have been incredibly uplifting and motivating. While the journey has been fraught with difficulties, the resilience of spirit and the unwavering support of the Hmong community have been invaluable in overcoming these challenges. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the representation of Hmong culture in children’s literature. I remain committed to this journey of learning, growth, and cultural preservation.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At the core of my being, I’m a creative soul who constantly seeks out new challenges. My journey as a Hmong-American children’s book author is a testament to that. As a Hmong-American children’s book author, I specialize in crafting bilingual children’s books that celebrate the rich heritage and stories of the Hmong-American community. My passion lies in weaving together the beauty of the Hmong language with the accessibility of English, creating a bridge between cultures for young readers.
What sets my work apart is its dual purpose: not only do my books satisfy my creative drive, but they also serve as a powerful tool for making a positive impact on the Hmong community. I take immense pride in knowing that my stories are helping to preserve and celebrate our cultural heritage, while also fostering language learning and literacy skills among young readers.
What am I most proud of? It’s the tangible impact my books have had on the lives of Hmong children and families. To see them light up with joy as they recognize themselves in the pages of my stories is truly rewarding. It’s a reminder of the power of representation and the importance of diverse voices in children’s literature. Looking ahead, my goal is to continue contributing to the cultural tapestry of children’s literature, amplifying underrepresented voices and inspiring the next generation of readers and storytellers. With each new book, I aim to build upon the foundation of positive change I’ve already established within the Hmong community and beyond.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
I also create YouTube videos that complement my books, aiding children in reading along and becoming more accustomed to the sounds of the Hmong language.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://toryenvy.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toryenvy/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/toryenvy/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NNuXck079tU&list=PLxUVYzBFtsCA_WbSPEuImSyBjl26vO63F
