Hockey Book Reviews.com

  "Max Bentley: Hockey's Dipsy Doodle Dandy" by Ed Fitkin is a riveting biography that pays homage to one of hockey's most electrifying and enigmatic figures. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Fitkin brings to life the remarkable journey of Max Bentley, a diminutive dynamo whose dazzling skills and infectious charisma captured the hearts of hockey fans across North America. The book is a celebration of talent, perseverance, and the indomitable human spirit. Fitkin's narrative traces Bentley's rise from humble beginnings in Delisle, Saskatchewan, to the pinnacle of professional hockey, where he earned accolades as one of the game's most electrifying playmakers. Through a series of vividly rendered anecdotes and personal accounts, Fitkin paints a vivid portrait of a man whose passion for the game was matched only by his unwavering dedication to excellence. One of the book's most compelling aspects is Fitkin's exploration of Bentley...

 "The First Season: 1917-18 and the Birth of the NHL" by Bob Duff offers a captivating and meticulously researched account of the inaugural season of the National Hockey League (NHL), illuminating the genesis of professional hockey's most storied league. With vivid storytelling and a wealth of historical insights, Duff transports readers back to a time when the game was in its infancy, tracing the origins of the NHL and the pivotal moments that shaped its evolution. At its core, "The First Season" is a celebration of the pioneering spirit and unwavering determination of the men who laid the foundation for modern hockey. Duff's narrative is anchored by a colorful cast of characters, from the visionary team owners and league officials to the fearless players who took to the ice in pursuit of glory and immortality. Through a series of meticulously crafted vignettes and personal anecdotes, Duff brings to life the sights, sounds, and emotions of a bygone era, whe...

"When It Mattered Most: The Forgotten Story of America's First Stanley Cup Champions, and the War to End All Wars" by Kevin Ticen is a riveting exploration of a little-known chapter in hockey history that intertwines the triumphs of sport with the turmoil of war. With meticulous research and evocative storytelling, Ticen sheds light on the remarkable journey of the Seattle Metropolitans, America's first Stanley Cup champions, against the backdrop of World War I. At its core, "When It Mattered Most" is a testament to the resilience, camaraderie, and indomitable spirit of the human soul in the face of adversity. Ticen's narrative is anchored by the exploits of the Seattle Metropolitans, a scrappy band of underdogs whose improbable rise to hockey glory captivated a nation on the brink of war. Through a series of vividly rendered vignettes and personal accounts, Ticen transports readers to a bygone era of wooden sticks, outdoor rinks, and packed arenas, wher...

  "Evolve or Die: Hard-Won Lessons from a Hockey Life" by John Shannon is a captivating memoir that transcends the boundaries of sports literature, offering readers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of professional hockey through the lens of one of its most prominent figures. With candor, wit, and a wealth of firsthand experiences, Shannon navigates the highs and lows of a career spent at the forefront of the sport, providing invaluable insights into the ever-changing landscape of hockey and the lessons learned along the way. At its core, "Evolve or Die" is a testament to the transformative power of adaptability and resilience in the face of adversity. Shannon's narrative is anchored by a series of personal anecdotes and reflections, each serving as a poignant reminder of the challenges and triumphs that define a life dedicated to hockey. From his early days as a wide-eyed journalist to his tenure as a respected television executive, Shannon's journey i...

Damian Cox's "The Last Good Year: Seven Games That Ended An Era" is a captivating journey through seven pivotal hockey games that marked the end of an era in the NHL. With meticulous research, insightful analysis, and vivid storytelling, Cox paints a vivid portrait of a bygone era in professional hockey, exploring the cultural, social, and political forces that shaped the sport during a time of transition and upheaval. At its core, "The Last Good Year" is a nostalgic tribute to the golden age of hockey, a time when the game was defined by fierce rivalries, larger-than-life personalities, and timeless moments of triumph and heartbreak. Through a series of meticulously detailed accounts, Cox takes readers on a thrilling ride through some of the most iconic games in NHL history, from the epic showdowns between the Montreal Canadiens and the Boston Bruins to the historic battles for supremacy between the Edmonton Oilers and the New York Islanders. One of the book...

 Cecil Harris's "Breaking The Ice" is a compelling and multifaceted exploration of the African American experience in hockey, weaving together personal narratives, historical insights, and cultural analysis to shed light on a largely overlooked aspect of the sport. With meticulous research and heartfelt storytelling, Harris brings to life the struggles and triumphs of black athletes who have defied the odds and carved out a place for themselves in the predominantly white world of hockey. At its core, "Breaking The Ice" is a celebration of resilience, determination, and the power of representation. Harris's narrative spans generations, from the pioneers who blazed trails in the early days of organized hockey to the modern-day stars who continue to inspire future generations. Through a series of compelling vignettes and interviews, he introduces readers to a diverse cast of characters whose stories illuminate the complex intersection of race, identity, and spo...

"The Great Defender: My Hockey Odyssey" by Larry Robinson and Kevin Shea offers a captivating glimpse into the illustrious career and profound influence of one of hockey's most revered figures. With rich anecdotes, insightful reflections, and a genuine warmth, Robinson and Shea paint a vivid portrait of a man whose impact transcends the boundaries of the rink. At its core, "The Great Defender" is a celebration of Larry Robinson's remarkable journey from a small-town Canadian kid to a hockey icon. Through a series of engaging narratives and personal recollections, Robinson shares the highs and lows of his storied career, offering readers an intimate look at the trials, triumphs, and lessons learned along the way. One of the book's most compelling aspects is Robinson's unwavering commitment to excellence both on and off the ice. From his early days with the Montreal Canadiens to his later years as a coach and mentor, Robinson's passion for the game...

"Draft Day: How Hockey Teams Pick Winners or Get Left Behind" by Doug McLean is a comprehensive exploration of the intricate and often unpredictable world of drafting in professional hockey. With his wealth of experience as a former NHL coach and general manager, McLean offers invaluable insights into the strategies, successes, and pitfalls that define the annual ritual of selecting young talent. At its core, "Draft Day" serves as a roadmap for hockey executives, coaches, scouts, and fans alike, illuminating the complexities of talent evaluation and player development in a highly competitive landscape. McLean deftly navigates through the intricacies of the draft process, from scouting prospects to making informed decisions on draft day, providing readers with a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of NHL franchises. One of the book's most compelling aspects is McLean's emphasis on the human element of scouting and player evaluation. Drawing from his ...

Stephen Cole's "Hockey Night Fever: Mullets, Mayhem, and the Game's Coming of Age in the 1970s" is a nostalgic journey through one of hockey's most iconic eras. With meticulous research and engaging prose, Cole paints a vivid portrait of the sport during a decade that saw it rise to prominence on both sides of the border. Set against the backdrop of the 1970s, a decade marked by cultural upheaval and societal change, "Hockey Night Fever" captures the essence of an era defined by mullets, mayhem, and the emergence of hockey as a national obsession. From the dynastic dominance of the Montreal Canadiens to the rough-and-tumble style of the Broad Street Bullies, Cole chronicles the triumphs and tribulations of the teams and players who shaped the game's identity during this transformative period. One of the book's most compelling aspects is its exploration of the cultural significance of hockey in Canada and the United States. Cole deftly examines ho...

Greg Crain's "Parallels of Life: The Game of Hockey" intricately weaves together the threads of hockey and life, offering a profound exploration of the sport's parallels to our daily existence. In this captivating book, Crain seamlessly melds personal anecdotes, historical insights, and philosophical reflections, creating a narrative that transcends the confines of a mere sports commentary. At its core, "Parallels of Life" is not just about hockey; it's about the human experience. Crain artfully draws parallels between the game's dynamics and the challenges, triumphs, and complexities of life itself. Through a series of captivating stories and reflections, he delves into the essence of hockey as a microcosm of existence, where teamwork, resilience, and adaptability are paramount. One of the book's greatest strengths lies in Crain's ability to blend his personal journey with the broader tapestry of hockey history. From childhood memories of la...

"Calling the Shots: Memoirs of an NHL Referee" by Bruce Hood offers an intimate glimpse into the world of professional hockey through the eyes of one of its most authoritative figures—the referee. Hood, a veteran NHL referee, takes readers on a captivating journey through his career, offering insightful reflections, humorous anecdotes, and candid observations about the game he loves. The book provides a unique perspective on hockey, shedding light on the challenges, controversies, and triumphs experienced by referees behind the scenes. Hood's narrative style is engaging and authentic, allowing readers to feel as though they are right alongside him on the ice, making split-second decisions under immense pressure. One of the book's most compelling aspects is Hood's ability to humanize the often overlooked role of the referee. He recounts his journey from humble beginnings in small-town Canada to officiating some of the most intense matchups in NHL history. Along the...

In "Breakaway: From Behind the Iron Curtain to the NHL—The Untold Story of Hockey's Great Escapes," Tal Pinchevsky embarks on a riveting journey through the untold narratives of hockey players who defied geopolitical boundaries and personal adversities to pursue their passion for the game. With meticulous research and poignant storytelling, Pinchevsky brings to light the remarkable odysseys of players who transcended cultural barriers and political regimes to find success in the highest echelons of the sport. Pinchevsky begins by unraveling the historical backdrop of the Cold War era, which significantly shaped the landscape of international hockey. Against the backdrop of political tensions and ideological rivalries, hockey emerged as both a battleground and a bridge between East and West. Through compelling anecdotes and interviews, Pinchevsky illustrates how hockey served as a catalyst for defectors seeking liberation from oppressive regimes in Eastern Europe. The boo...

In "Willie: The Game-Changing Story of the NHL's First Black Player," Willie O'Ree, the hockey pioneer himself, invites readers on an inspiring journey through his remarkable life and career. As the NHL's first black player, O'Ree's story transcends sports, offering a powerful testament to perseverance, courage, and the relentless pursuit of equality in the face of adversity. From his humble beginnings in Fredericton, New Brunswick, to his historic debut with the Boston Bruins in 1958, O'Ree's narrative is a testament to the transformative power of sport. With unwavering determination, he shattered racial barriers and defied skeptics who doubted his ability to succeed in a predominantly white league. O'Ree's memoir is more than a recounting of his on-ice accomplishments; it is a deeply personal reflection on the challenges he faced as a trailblazer in a sport struggling to confront its own prejudices. Through candid anecdotes and poignant ...

Ross Bernstein's "The Code" delves deep into the gritty, intense world of professional hockey, offering readers an intriguing look into the unwritten rules that govern one of the most physical sports on the planet. In this meticulously researched book, Bernstein explores the culture of fighting and retaliation in the National Hockey League (NHL), shedding light on the complex dynamics that shape the game both on and off the ice. From the opening pages, Bernstein captures the reader's attention with vivid anecdotes and insider perspectives from players, coaches, and referees. He navigates through the history of the NHL, tracing the origins of "The Code" back to the early days of the sport and its evolution over time. Through interviews and analysis, Bernstein paints a nuanced picture of the unspoken norms and rituals that dictate players' behavior and decision-making during games. One of the book's strengths lies in its exploration of the psychologica...

"The Hockey Sweater" by Roch Carrier is a timeless and cherished Canadian classic that transcends the boundaries of a children's book. Originally published in 1979, this iconic story has become a cultural touchstone, resonating with readers of all ages and capturing the essence of Canada's passion for hockey. At its core, "The Hockey Sweater" is a deceptively simple tale with profound themes. Set in a small Quebec town during the 1940s, the story revolves around a young boy whose fervor for the Montreal Canadiens leads to an unexpected twist of fate. When his beloved Canadiens sweater becomes tattered beyond repair, he is mistakenly sent a Toronto Maple Leafs sweater – the arch-rivals of his hockey heroes. The narrative unfolds with humor, nostalgia, and a subtle exploration of identity and cultural allegiances. Roch Carrier's writing is both evocative and charming, immersing readers in the idyllic world of a bygone era. The story is infused with a deep...

"Searching for Bobby Orr" by Stephen Brunt is an intimate and revealing exploration of the life and legacy of one of hockey's greatest legends. Published in 2006, this biography delves into the enigmatic persona of Bobby Orr, unraveling the complexities of his career, personal life, and the profound impact he had on the sport of hockey. Brunt's narrative unfolds like a detective story, tracing the steps of the elusive Bobby Orr from his early days in Parry Sound, Ontario, to his meteoric rise in the National Hockey League (NHL). The author employs a journalistic approach, blending interviews, historical accounts, and personal anecdotes to paint a comprehensive portrait of Orr's life. The result is a compelling narrative that transcends the typical sports biography, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of the man behind the hockey legend. The strength of "Searching for Bobby Orr" lies in Brunt's ability to humanize the larger-than-life figur...

"The Greatest Game: The Montreal Canadiens, the Red Army, and the Night That Saved Hockey" by Todd Denault is a captivating exploration of a pivotal moment in the history of hockey that transcends the sport itself. Published in 2005, the book meticulously recounts the legendary match between the Montreal Canadiens and the Soviet Red Army team on December 31, 1975, a game often hailed as one of the greatest in the annals of hockey. Denault skillfully intertwines the broader historical context of the Cold War with the intricate details of the game, creating a narrative that goes beyond sports. The backdrop of political tensions between the East and West serves as the canvas upon which the drama unfolds. This matchup is not merely a clash of hockey titans but a symbolic confrontation between two ideologies. The strength of Denault's narrative lies in his ability to humanize the players on both teams. Through in-depth research and interviews, he paints vivid portraits of the ...

"The Boys of Winter" by Wayne Coffey is a compelling and meticulously researched narrative that immortalizes one of the most iconic moments in sports history—the victory of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team, famously known as the "Miracle on Ice." Through rich storytelling and vivid character portrayals, Coffey captures not just the triumph on the ice but the essence of teamwork, sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit that defined this underdog team. Coffey skillfully sets the stage, providing readers with a thorough understanding of the political and social backdrop of the late 1970s, a time marked by Cold War tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union. Against this geopolitical canvas, the author introduces the players, each with their unique backgrounds and journeys to becoming part of this historic team. The narrative is woven around the team's coach, Herb Brooks, whose unconventional methods and unyielding determination played a pivotal role in ...

"The Game" by Ken Dryden is a captivating exploration into the world of professional ice hockey, offering readers an insightful journey through the mind of a goaltender. Published in 1983, the book combines Dryden's experiences as a goaltender for the Montreal Canadiens with his reflections on the sport's culture, pressures, and the life of an athlete. At its core, "The Game" is a memoir that delves deep into the psyche of a professional athlete, shedding light on the mental and emotional challenges they face. Dryden skillfully weaves his personal narrative with broader reflections on the nature of hockey, creating a narrative that is both personal and universally relatable. One of the strengths of the book lies in Dryden's ability to articulate the intense pressure and scrutiny faced by professional athletes. As a goaltender, he occupies a unique position on the ice, serving as the last line of defense for his team. Through vivid descriptions and intros...