Gretzky's Game

Liz Dennett is a public service librarian in the Science and Technology
Library at the University of Alberta.

Ryan is determined not to let his small size and stature stop him from
playing hockey. With his dad’s help, he practises hard to make an
elite team. Ryan is inspired by Wayne Gretzky of the Edmonton Oilers.
Gretzky is also small compared to other players in the NHL, but is
shattering records and leading his team to the playoffs. Once Ryan makes
the team, it does not go that well. But he continues to work hard, and
during the last game of the year it all pays off. Ryan scores a goal to
give his team a tie. Meanwhile Gretzky and the Oilers have worked their
way back to the Stanley Cup finals against their rivals the New York
Islanders. In the fifth game, the Oilers have a chance to win it all.
Ryan and his dad go to the game and witness the triumphant moment when
the Oilers, led by Gretzky, win their first Stanley Cup. Gretzky hoists
the cup over his head with all his teammates looking on, creating a
moment that is etched into hockey history.

Mike Leonetti’s fun text and Greg Banning’s lavish and realistic
illustrations do a good job of re-creating this great moment in hockey,
as seen through the eyes of the young Ryan. Gretzky fans will enjoy
reliving this bit of history and sharing it with their children;
however, they may find that the lengthy text deters them from wanting to
share it over and over again. Recommended.