Heart of the Game: Minor Hockey Moments

Irene Punt is a published author and elementary-school teacher in
Calgary, Alberta.

Renowned artist John Newby has “teamed” his widely loved hockey
paintings with endearing text, creating a wonderful book for hockey
lovers of all ages.

Each image captures a “minor” (as in small or amateur league)
hockey moment, including wearing a huge hockey sweater, playing in an
outdoor shinny, having an inspiring coach, the first trip to the penalty
box, and the first goal. The paintings are full of detail, right down to
the brand names on the hockey equipment. A brief text accompanies each
painting. For example, the passage accompanying the painting showing a
youngster getting ready for a 5:00 a.m. practice says: “Pull on your
gear, strap on the shin guards, adjust the helmet—you’re ready to
go, you’re part of a team.” The last passage sums up the tone of the
book: “So the years will pass, and playing hockey will be a part of
who you are. You’ll want to share what you’ve learned—patience,
discipline, teamwork, respect, your love for this sport … found at the
heart of the game.”

Parents especially will enjoy sharing this Canadian classic with their
children. Highly recommended.