Biography
Victoria Lee, professionally known as Tory Envy, is a distinguished Hmong-American children's book author and artist. Her literary journey began with the publication of her inaugural bilingual children's book, "I Am A Big Sister - Kuv Yog Ib Tug Niam Laus," in 2021. Garnering attention from Fox 9 News and achieving a notable ranking within the top 20 on Amazon.com for Asian American Literature, Envy swiftly emerged as a noteworthy voice in the realm of children's literature.
Drawing inspiration from her roles as a mother to two young children, Envy's creative reservoir is enriched by the everyday experiences of parenthood. As the first generation offspring of Hmong immigrants in the United States, Envy's upbringing imbued her with a profound appreciation for art as a vehicle for self-expression and cultural preservation. Straddling the cultural divide between her Hmong heritage and American upbringing, Envy endeavors to foster a sense of identity and pride among Hmong youth through her artistic endeavors.
Prior to her ventures in children's literature, Envy showcased her musical talents with the release of her debut single, "Hlub Dhau Mus Lawm," in 2015, amassing over half a million views on YouTube. Her subsequent solo EP, "Story Cloth," in 2016 further showcased her versatility as an artist. Envy's musical journey culminated in her tenure as the lead vocalist of the pop-rock ensemble, Venus on Fire, from 2009 to 2014. During her tenure, the band released three EPs and the chart-topping single, "WAR," under the auspices of Lab Records (UK) in 2013, solidifying Envy's reputation as a multifaceted creative force.