In the dojo, Olive discovers her empowering strength. Outside, she faces her greatest challenge.
Sixteen-year-old Olive has always been an outsider and when her family uproots her from the bustling city to sleepy Buxton, she's sure her life is over. That is, until she stumbles upon a local martial arts, karate school.
The dojo becomes Olive's sanctuary, and her natural talent catches everyone's eye—especially Boyan, the enigmatic adopted son of her sensei. As Olive and Boyan's connection deepens, she realises he's fighting battles of his own.
But just as Olive begins to find her footing, a devastating secret threatens everything she's built. Now, she must summon every ounce of her newfound strength to fight for her place in a world that seems determined to push her out.
Osu is a gripping, empowering coming-of-age-tale of self-acceptance, resilience, and the transformative power of finding where you belong.
Book Review:
Osu: A Coming of Age Novel by Sensei Sarhn is an inspiring story that beautifully blends the struggles of adolescence with the discipline of martial arts. Olive, a sixteen-year-old uprooted from her city life, finds herself in a new town where she feels like an outsider. Her discovery of the local dojo not only introduces her to karate but also to a deeper journey of resilience, identity, and self-acceptance.
Sarhn captures the raw challenges of being a teenager—loneliness, self-doubt, and the pressure to belong—while showing how discipline and inner strength can transform those struggles into growth. The dojo scenes feel authentic and empowering, and Olive’s bond with Boyan adds emotional depth without overshadowing her personal journey.
Osu is more than just a coming-of-age tale; it’s a reminder that resilience is built, strength is chosen, and belonging begins within. Uplifting and heartfelt, this novel is a powerful read for teens and adults alike.
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