Osu: A Coming-of-Age Novel, An Empowering Book of Self-Acceptance & Resilience

'OSU celebrates the victory of forging one's path.' - BookLife by Publishers Weekly


Olive is just starting to find her power on the mat. But outside the karate dojo, the real fight is against the voice telling her she isn't enough.
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.

In this unforgettable debut, Sensei Sarhn reminds us that the stories we tell ourselves can be our greatest enemy-or our most powerful ally.



** 2025 Wishing Shelf International Book Awards - Silver Winner in the category 'Teens'

** 2026 Wishing Shelf International Book Awards - Finalist in the category 'Audiobooks Young Adult'

** 2026 NYC Big Book Awards - Distinguished Favorite in the categories; 'Audiobook Fiction' and 'Young Adult Fiction'



'Cobra Kai and Karate Kid fans will definitely appreciate this story and those generally looking for an inspiring uplifting read.'  - Cobra Kai Nation


'This is the kind of book that lingers long after the final page and reminds us that resilience is teachable, strength is a mindset, and belonging begins within.'  - Marianne Pestana, ABC Radio Show Moments With Marianne