Hockey for Kids: Heroes, Tips and Facts

Dave Jenkinson is a professor in the Faculty of Education at the University of Manitoba and the author of the “Portraits” section of Emergency Librarian.

McFarlane, the well-known hockey broadcaster and writer, has produced a
revised edition of his Hockey! The Book for Kids. For new juvenile
hockey fans or players, the book’s first two chapters will serve as a
fine introduction to the sport. McFarlane, in addition to clearly
explaining the basics of how the game is played, includes useful
information about equipment and drills; he also “interprets”
hockey’s vocabulary, which is often confusing to neophytes.

Bill Slavin’s multiracial, gender-inclusive color illustrations both
clarify and extend the text. The final two chapters, which are
generously illustrated with full-color action photographs, focus on
aspects of the National Hockey League; there is a description of a
pro’s typical “game day,” discussion of players’ superstitions,
and brief sketches of eight past and present “stars of the game.”

Oddly, the “And the Winner is ...” section on the NHL’s
individual awards omits the William Jennings Trophy for goalkeepers. The
roles of females in hockey are not overlooked, and McFarlane devotes
four pages of text and illustration to “Girls in Hockey.” The
book’s four chapters are divided into sections, most of which occupy a
single spread.

The nondemanding, profusely illustrated text, coupled with the book’s
inviting format, will be appreciated by the 8- to 12-year-old set,
especially reluctant readers. Recommended.