Parent’s Review of Hat Trick by Tom Earle
As a parent of a young ice hockey player, I’m always on the lookout for books that not only entertain but also offer valuable life lessons, not only during the hockey season. Hat Trick by Tom Earle is a fantastic read for older kids who are starting to experience the pressures and excitement of competitive hockey. It follows Ricky, a talented young player who must balance school, friendships, and the expectations of his coach and family.
What makes this book special is its realistic portrayal of the challenges young athletes face. Earle captures the intensity of the game, the thrill of scoring a goal, and the pressures that can sometimes take the fun out of sports. The story dives into themes of teamwork, resilience, and staying true to oneself, making it an excellent conversation starter between parents and kids.
Unlike many sports books that focus purely on the action, Hat Trick explores the emotional side of hockey—handling disappointment, overcoming setbacks, and finding joy in the game again. If your child is navigating their own hockey journey, this book is a relatable and engaging read that reinforces positive values.
It’s the perfect book to read together or discuss after practice. It helps kids see that hockey is about more than just winning—it’s about growth, friendships, and loving the game. Highly recommended for young players who are passionate about hockey and learning life lessons along the way!
A Father’s Review of Take Your Eye Off the Puck by Greg Wyshynski
As a hockey dad, I’ve spent countless hours at the rink, cheering from the stands, and discussing plays with my kid after games. But even as a lifelong fan, I’ll admit—there’s so much more to hockey than just watching the puck. Take Your Eye Off the Puck by Greg Wyshynski is the perfect book for any parent who wants to help their child (and themselves) better understand the game beyond the obvious action. It is not a classical biography.
Wyshynski breaks down hockey in a way that’s both insightful and entertaining. He doesn’t just explain what’s happening on the ice—he teaches you why it’s happening. The book covers everything from positioning, line changes, and defensive strategies to the business side of the NHL. His writing style is sharp, humorous, and easy to digest, making it a great read even if you’re not an analytics expert.
What I love most is how this book helps me have smarter conversations with my child about hockey. Instead of just saying, “You played great!” after a game, I can talk about what their team did well, how certain plays developed, or what to look for in their next match. For any hockey dad who wants to deepen their appreciation of the sport while helping their child grow as a player, this book is a must-read. It’s not just about hockey knowledge and outliers—it’s about experiencing the game in a whole new way.
A Hockey Coach’s Review of 99: Stories of the Game by Wayne Gretzky
As a youth hockey coach, I’m always looking for ways to inspire my players to not just work on their skills but truly love the game. 99: Stories of the Game by Wayne Gretzky is one of those books that every young player (and coach) should read. It’s more than just a collection of hockey stories; it’s a journey through the history of the sport, told by the greatest player to ever lace up skates.
What makes this book so valuable from a coaching perspective is how Gretzky shares not only his own experiences but also the evolution of hockey and the players who shaped it. He talks about growing up on backyard rinks, learning from the legends before him, and the moments that defined his career. But what really stands out is his deep respect for teamwork, dedication, and the little things that make great players—not just talent, but work ethic, hockey IQ, and passion for the game.
This is a book that I’d recommend to young players who are starting to dream big about ice hockey. It reinforces the idea that success isn’t just about scoring goals—it’s about understanding the game, playing with heart, and learning from those who came before you. As a coach, I love using stories from this book to motivate my team and show them that no matter their skill level today, their love for the game can take them anywhere.
A Head Coach’s Review of The Game by Ken Dryden
As a head coach, I’ve read a lot of books about hockey, leadership, and the mental side of the game, but The Game by Ken Dryden stands above the rest. This isn’t just a book about hockey—it’s a book about what it means to play hockey at the highest level, to be part of a team, and to navigate the pressures that come with it. It’s a must-read for anyone who coaches the game, whether at the youth level or beyond.
Dryden, one of the greatest goalies in history, takes readers inside the 1970s Montreal Canadiens, one of the greatest dynasties of all time. But this isn’t just a collection of stories—it’s an introspective, thoughtful look at the psychology of athletes, the grind of a long season, and what separates good teams from great ones. He talks about leadership, the mental challenges of performing under pressure, and how a team functions on and off the ice.
What makes this book invaluable for a coach is how it highlights the importance of preparation, teamwork, and resilience. Dryden’s insights into how great players think and perform under pressure are lessons that apply to every level of the game. Whether I’m working with young players or coaching at a high level, the themes in The Game remind me why hockey is about more than just skill—it’s about mindset, camaraderie, and commitment. Any serious coach should have this book on their shelf.
A Grandpa’s Review of Boys of Winter by Wayne Coffey
I still remember exactly where I was on February 22, 1980—the day the "Miracle on Ice" happened. I watched it unfold live, feeling every moment of tension, disbelief, and pure joy as a group of American college kids took down the seemingly unbeatable Soviet hockey machine. It wasn’t just a hockey game; it was a moment in history, one that I never thought could be captured in words—until I read Boys of Winter by Wayne Coffey.
Now, decades later, I get to share this story with my grandson. We sit together, flipping through the pages, reliving that moment that meant so much to me. But what makes this book so special is that it’s not just about that one game—it’s about the players, their stories, and what made them believe they could achieve the impossible. Coffey dives into the personalities of the young men Herb Brooks molded into a team, showing their struggles, sacrifices, and ultimate triumph.
Reading this book with my grandson has been one of the most rewarding experiences. He may not have been alive to witness it, but through these pages, he gets to feel the excitement, the nerves, and the unbelievable joy of that victory. It’s more than a hockey book—it’s a reminder that in life, the underdog can win, that hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard, and that belief is everything. If you love hockey and want to pass that passion down, Boys of Winter is a must-read.
A School Teacher’s Review of Hockey: A People’s History by Michael McKinley
As a teacher, I always look for books that not only inform but also engage young minds with storytelling, history, and cultural significance. Hockey: A People’s History by Michael McKinley is a fantastic resource that does just that—it’s more than just a sports book; it’s a deep dive into how hockey has shaped communities, identities, and even national pride.
McKinley takes readers on a journey from the origins of the sport, when Indigenous peoples played early forms of the game, to the rise of professional leagues and the unforgettable moments that defined hockey history. What makes this book especially valuable in an educational setting is how it weaves together historical events, technological advancements, and personal stories of players who transformed the game. It’s not just about famous names but also about the everyday people and local communities that made hockey what it is today.
For students who love hockey, this book offers a new appreciation for the game beyond what happens on the ice. For those unfamiliar with the sport, it provides an accessible and engaging way to learn about Canadian and North American history through the lens of something exciting. Whether used in a history, physical education, or social studies classroom, Hockey: A People’s History is a great book to spark curiosity, discussion, and a deeper understanding of why this sport means so much to so many people. Highly recommended for educators and hockey fans alike!
A Personalised Hockey Adventure – The Ultimate Ice Hockey Book for Young Players (ages 4 to 10)
One of the most exciting and engaging ways to spark a child’s love for hockey is by making them the star of the story. With A Personalised Hockey Adventure from CUKIBO, your young player doesn’t just read about hockey—they live it! This immersive, beautifully illustrated book places them at the heart of an action-packed adventure, where they skate, pass, and score their way to an unforgettable ice hockey moment.
Fun and Excitement – Bringing Hockey to Life
Hockey is an adrenaline-filled sport, and this book captures that thrill perfectly. Young readers will experience the excitement of stepping onto the ice, feeling the cool air as they take their first stride, and the pure joy of scoring a goal. It’s an incredible way to fuel their passion for the game, whether they are just beginning their hockey journey or already practicing hard every week. The fast-paced story and engaging visuals bring the magic of hockey to life, making it an excellent gift for kids who are just starting or those who’ve already fallen in love with the sport. This book is also the perfect way to celebrate the end of a tough season or a well-played tournament, rewarding kids with a story where they are the hero of their own hockey journey.
The Power of Teamwork – A True Ice Hockey Lesson
Even though the child is the star player in the book, they don’t get there alone. Just like in real hockey, teamwork is essential in this story. Through challenges, friendships, and passing the puck, kids learn that success on the ice isn’t just about being the best individual player—it’s about working together. This theme makes A Personalized Hockey Adventure more than just an entertaining read; it teaches the values of collaboration, trust, and perseverance. As children follow their own hockey character through the ups and downs of the game, they’ll see that every great player relies on their team to achieve victory.
Handling Pressure, Mistakes, and Emotional Growth
One of the most overlooked yet crucial aspects of ice hockey, be it during ice hockey practice or ice hockey tournaments, is handling emotions on the ice—something young players often struggle with. This book gently introduces kids to the natural highs and lows of playing ice hockey. Whether it’s missing an important shot, falling during a big moment, or dealing with the fear of letting their team down during the hockey season, A Personalized Hockey Adventure helps kids navigate these feelings. It provides a framework for parents to discuss these challenges with their children, making it easier to talk about frustration, resilience, and bouncing back from setbacks. These are not just hockey lessons—they are life lessons that will stay with them as they grow.
Why This Book is a Must-Read for Young Hockey Fans
Many parents wonder: What books should I read to my hockey-loving child? or How can I help my kid deal with hockey-related pressure? This book is the answer. It’s the ultimate hockey story that inspires, excites, and educates, all while making kids feel like they are the hero of their own adventure. If you’re looking for the best hockey books for kids, A Personalized Hockey Adventure should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re reading it at bedtime, before a big game, or as a celebration of a great season, this book creates unforgettable memories between parents and their little hockey stars.
This is more than just a book—it’s a gift that will fuel their love for hockey, teach them the values of teamwork and perseverance, and help them manage the emotional ups and downs that come with playing the game. Get ready to watch your child’s eyes light up as they see themselves scoring the game-winning goal in their very own hockey adventure!
Editor’s Extra Pick: Orr: My Story by Bobby Orr
At CUKIBO, we love books that inspire young readers and bring them closer to the heart of the game. That’s why Orr: My Story by Bobby Orr is an extra pick in the biographies category we just couldn’t leave out. This isn’t just a hockey book—it’s a heartfelt, humble, and deeply personal account from one of the greatest defensemen to ever play the game.
What makes this book stand out is that it’s not just about Bobby Orr’s legendary career—it’s about the values that shaped him. Orr doesn’t focus on bragging about his accomplishments; instead, he shares his love for the game, the lessons he learned along the way, and the importance of playing with integrity. He talks about growing up playing pond hockey, his struggles with injuries, and how he handled both success and setbacks.
For young players, this book is a powerful lesson in perseverance and sportsmanship. It teaches kids that being great at hockey isn’t just about scoring goals—it’s about respect, hard work, and always putting the team first. For parents and grandparents reading along, Orr’s storytelling brings back the magic of an era when hockey was pure, fast, and played with heart.
If you want a book that captures the essence of hockey and delivers meaningful life lessons at the same time, Orr: My Story is a must-have. It’s not just about a player—it’s about what it truly means to love the game.
CUKIBO Founder’s Extra Pick: They Don’t Call It Hockey Anymore by Greg Oliver
At CUKIBO, we believe great books should do more than just tell a story—they should spark conversation, inspire curiosity, and challenge the way we see the world. That’s exactly what They Don’t Call It Hockey Anymore by Greg Oliver does. This isn’t your typical hockey book about stats, star players, or championship runs. Instead, it takes a deep, often humorous look at how the sport has evolved (and in some cases, lost a bit of its original magic).
Oliver takes readers through the many ways hockey has changed over the years, from the rules and equipment to the culture of the game itself. For lifelong fans, it’s a nostalgic walk down memory lane, filled with stories about how the game used to be played—the grit, the physicality, and the raw passion that sometimes feel missing in today’s version of the sport. But it’s not just about looking back; the book also raises fascinating questions about what hockey has become and where it’s heading.
For parents reading with their kids, this book offers a fun way to compare the past and present, sparking discussions about whether today’s high-tech skates and video reviews are better or if the old-school, no-helmet era had a certain charm. It’s perfect for hockey lovers who enjoy the sport beyond just the goals and wins, making it a great addition to any fan’s collection. They Don’t Call It Hockey Anymore is a must-read for those who love the game’s history and want to understand how hockey continues to evolve.
Why Reading Ice Hockey Books Together Matters
For many parents, ice hockey is more than just a game—it’s a way to bond with their kids, share in their excitement, and help them grow as players and as people. Reading hockey books together brings the spirit of the game into the home, whether through bedtime stories about hockey adventures, inspiring biographies, or deep discussions about strategy.
For younger kids, fun picture books and personalized adventures spark their imagination and make hockey feel magical. For older kids, inspiring true stories and engaging chapter books keep them motivated and help them understand the mental and emotional aspects of the game. No matter the age, reading together builds lasting memories and strengthens the love of hockey in a way that will stay with them for years to come.
So, grab a book, snuggle up on the couch, and enjoy the ride—because the best moments in hockey aren’t just on the ice, but in the stories we share along the way.