Amazon.com
Like its teammates in the Dummies series, Hockey for Dummies is cleverly organized and clearly focused, geared to both fans and players. It is filled with fun stuff such as lists of the 10 best things about the game, the 10 best players, the 10 best teams, and, given even a novice's inability to mistake hockey for Zen, the 10 best hitters. Hockey for Dummies also contains plenty of good, practical advice: Wayne Gretzky offers a clinic on passing, Mark Messier hosts one on face-offs, Brian Leetch counsels players in clinics on defense, and Ron Hextall teaches goaltending. Authors John Davidson and John Steinbreder explain rules, discuss equipment, and detail strategies. They even give pointers on how best to appreciate the game on television. It seems the only thing missing from Hockey for Dummies is a dental referral for the first time one of your incisors gets in the way of an errant puck.Book Description
“Gives die-hard fans and newcomers to the sport the inside edge! —Scotty Bowman, NHL’s winningest coach and  former coach of the Detroit Red Wings

“Nothing gets by John Davidson. If the first edition didn’t already make you a fan, then this edition will!—Mark Messier, NHL All-Star

“My dog, Blue, and I ran out to get Hockey For Dummies, 2^nd Edition. We give it two paws up!—Don Cherry, former NHL coach and “Coaches Corner” commentator for Hockey Night in Canada

“...a must read for all hockey fans! —John Vanbiesbrouck, former goaltender, New York Islanders

“...the most comprehensive, easily understood source of hockey history and instruction I’ve ever come across. Not only was ‘JD’ a superb player in the NHL, he is also an extremely skilled commentator sharing his knowledge of the game with fans all over North America. From hat tricks to power plays, Hockey For Dummies provides the reader with the wisdom of an expert. —From the Foreword by Wayne Gretzky

This updated edition of the bestselling guide to all things hockey is packed with illustrations and play-by-play descriptions, diagrams, and photos of the NHL’s greatest players. It tells you how to:

• Gear up safely with the right equipment
• Improve your skills with drills
• Warm up mentally—and physically—before hitting the ice
• Respect rules and good sportsmanship
• Find US and Canadian leagues and camps

From youth leagues to the secrets of the NHL greats, Hockey For Dummies, 3^rd Edition is your total guide to this cool sport. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (16)

New Hockey Mom
I ordered this book for a good general overview as my son has chosen to play hockey when no one else in our family has ever played before.I found it to be a great source of information for a beginner family.Highly recommend this book.

Hockey for Dummies
Very informative book.A must for new fans and old ones alike.Broken down into understandable terminology.

Hockey?Not for me, thank you.
I got this book as a gift.Boy, this person doesn't know me very well.I don't like hockey.And this book doesn't help matters.Not at all.Its boring, and there are no interesting characters or plotlines.These guys that wrote this book clearly tried hard to write an informative book.I guess I recommend it for people who are interested in hockey.

a good book for beginers and old fans alike
this book was suprisingly very good. I really liked that it had a work out to follow and tips on playing from the pros to get you started playing hockey. It is also imformative for new hockey fans and fans like myself who have loved the game for some years now

No Longer a Dummy!
Hockey For Dummies was incredibly helpful when my son began playing the sport and we ended up getting so hooked that we started attending collegiate as well as professional hockey games. Nothing like a bunch of new hockey moms inquiring, "what is icing?" to which another replies, "it's something you put on a cake."

The book's format was very easy to follow, so no matter what you want to learn (penalties, history, etc.) you will be able to get a no-nonsense answer to your inquiry. Understanding something about the sport makes it much more enjoyable to watch. I was particularly impressed with the guidelines for watching the games in person versus the televised ones. ... Read more

Book Description
The companion volume to our bestselling, Blue Spruce Award winner, Z is for Zamboni: A Hockey Alphabet. Like our alphabet series our counting books are written in a two-tier format with charming poems for young readers and expository text for older readers. Young sports fans see numbers everywhere the scoreboard, the retired jerseys in the rafters, the numerology of sports stats and Hat Tricks Count: A Hockey Number Book delivers them faster than an assist from the Great One, number 99 himself. Hat Tricks Count will answer many of the fast paced questions kids have. What is a Hat Trick, anyway? Cross checking, high sticking, and hooking penalties add up to what? Who scored more career goals Gordie Howe or Wayne Gretzky? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Great counting book for Hockey lovers
This is a great counting book for your little one who loves the game of Hockey.Even I learned a few things about Hockey from this.

LOVE THIS BOOK!
I GOT THIS BOOK FOR CHIRSTMAS FOR OUR 3 YR OLD BUDDING HOCKEY FAN.HE HAS ASKED FOR IT EVERY NIGHT SINCE.IT HAS REALLY HELPED HIM GRASP THE IDEA OF COUNTING THE 20'S AND 30'S AND SO ON AS THEY ARE TALKED ABOUT IN THE BOOK.ONE PAGE HAS 80 JERSEYS WITH ALL OF THE DIFFERENT NUMBERS. MY SON LOVES THIS BOOK AND SO DO I.

Hat Tricks Count: A very cute book for anyone connected to hockey.
This picture book is darling, and holds the interest of the adult reading it to a child.If you have any connection to hockey,or Canada you will love this book which is beuatifully written and illustrated by two Canadians, Matt Napier and Melanie Rose.

Hat Tricks Count
My four year old loves hockey and really enjoys reading this book.He picks up on a lot of new hockey facts from it.

great book for hockey fans
I bought this book for my granddaughter who is hockey fan and loves the game.She really was interested in learning her numbers. We are a hockey family and anything that can help my granddaughter is a winner in my book. ... Read more

Book Description
Do you believe in magic? Tracy does. When she starts using Wayne Gretzky's hockey stick, won by her parents at a charity auction, she suddenly becomes the best player on her hockey team. She hasn't become a better player overnight-it's the magic of The Great One's stick! But while Tracy's star is on the rise, Wayne's is steadily dropping. He's in the greatest slump of his career. Tracy knows that Wayne needs his magic stick back, but she needs it, too.The question is: Who needs it more? This heartfelt story, with its clever rhyme and vibrant artwork, will delight young readers.

"Even children who have no knowledge of hockey will be entertained by this book and impressed by its message. Maloney and Zekauskas have scored a winning goal with this one." (School Library Journal) ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

nice book
Nice illustrations, good story with rhyme. Better for ages 6 and up probably.

The Magic Hockey Stick
Once again, you have sent a book that will also become my grandson'sfavorite reading.It is a pleasure ordering books through this website.
Jan

The Magic Hockey Stick
Recommended to us by the PR staff at the Carolina Hurricanes and we love it!

For the ultimate child hockey fan
This book is fun to read, cute artwork, with a lesson for all. My son enjoyed it very much and read it to his class for this birthday. Easy to read, fun to dream, easy for kids to connect.

My Little Hockey Junkies Love This Book
Enough said!We read this one every day now! ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (3)

A very eclectic and enjoyable collection
I've read a lot of hockey books and found most of them to be light on substance from either a literary or technical standpoint. This collection, however, captures so many of the nuances and back stories that make the game of hockey so incredibly unique. E.M. Swifts piece titled "A Reminder Of What We Can Be" is my favorite hockey story ever. I was a 15 year old hockey player at the time the United States beat the Soviet Union and I remember following that team in the papers all winter. When the big game was tape delayed, I was so disappointed because I had a game that night and we didn't have a VCR back then. One of the fathers had a B&W television going in the penalty box and although we new the outcome, both teams decided to stop play and huddle around that television to watch the 3rd period. We hugged and high fived as if we had beaten the mighty Russians ourselves. That moment in time was a rare convergence of what is great about life and hockey. E.M. Swift clearly understands the meaning.
"Facing The Shooter" by Wilkinson is a fantastic account of what its really like to play the most stressful position in sports, hockey goaltender.
This book may be a bit difficult for younger readers to get through and grasp, but older fans will appreciate the depth and quality of the writing.

Any true hockey fan will relish this special book
Reviewed by Beverly Pechin for Reader Views (2/07)

Being an avid hockey fan I wasn't too expectant upon reading "short stories" about the great moments in hockey and being surprised by what they had to say. Imagine my delight when I found not only interesting and completely out of the ordinary tales of some of the most memorable moments in hockey, right before my eyes, but stories told that I knew with inside looks that make them seem completely different than any other I've read.

"The Greatest Hockey Stories Ever Told" is a wonderful compilation of stories regarding the greatest game on ice, hockey. With everything from "The Miracle Team" from a perspective you probably have never heard before to "A Portrait of The Great One," Wayne Gretzky, you will find each story with its own form and style, told like no other. With so many authors contributing to the book, there is an infinite amount of perspectives that you probably have never seen before on the game. Hockey greats like Toe Blake, Wayne Gretzky, and the infamous Montreal Canadiens and their years of reign are all topics of conversation in this great book of hockey stories and memories.

The style and content are so unique to any other hockey book I've ever read that I am somewhat speechless as to how to compare it to anything else. Loaded with stories, insider's views, coaches' memories, team moments and so much more, any true hockey fan will relish this special book and all its content. The ability to read a story and put it down to come back to later makes it a great book to simply keep around to get your "hockey fix," especially out of season! So after the Cup Craze is over, pull up a seat and enjoy an inside look at the real life stories of hockey and all of its glorious moments. Even the most well-versed and trivia filled amongst us will find an inside look at this great life on and off the ice in "The Greatest Hockey Stories Ever Told."

Wide variety of stories
This mini-anthology has a wide range of hockey stories from one written by the American, Pulitzer-winning author William Faulkner (this story was junk, though well written if you like Faulkner) to life on the road as a minor league player hoping to be called up (poignantly and rawly written like the life itself), to a homily to Toe Blake, to a portrait of The Great One (Gretzky) by Peter Gzowski, to how to make your own backyard rink.

The quality of writing is generally very good and virtually every story offers an interesting perspective on the game. Stories are short so you can read one on the subway or before you go to bed at night. All in all, a decent hard cover to have on your bookshelf. ... Read more

Book Description

The bible for hockey coaches at all levels of competition.

The Hockey Play Book is a practical handbook for coaches seeking better players and better team-play.

The book features systems for defensive, offensive and special-team situations, all accompanied by annotated, easy-to-understand diagrams. The systems range from conservative to aggressive -- some are intended for big, physical teams; others for fast-skating and highly skilled teams; and some work for both. Also included are teaching methods and drills for honing specific skills.

The first challenge for every coach is to determine the abilities of each skater. The approach in The Hockey Play Book is effective with players of all ages and levels of ability. Coaches can match systems with team strategy, bringing a special creative magic to one of the fastest team sports in the world.

The Hockey Play Book includes:

• 500 step-by-step diagrams
• Dozens of plays and skill-building drills
• Conservative and aggressive systems
• Teaching strategies for all levels of play

Customer Reviews (6)

Learning Hockey movements....organizing the Chaos
I remember learning basketball as a kid...watching it on TV was boring, one team scored, the other scored and not much looked different.

Then I learned about offense and defense and it all changed...became a lot more enjoyable and to this day I can watch a game and get involved.

Well, I'm learning Hockey now...as an adult.I don't have coaches around me to teach me...this book gives a good insight on what to look out for in a game...Offense and defense.

After one reading I went to a game....and it was a different experience.More enjoyable...a deeper connection with the game.

I didn't know exactly what was happeneing on the ice, but knew the basics and was able to more fully follow what the guys were trying to do.

I look forward to a few more readings through this book...and getting ready to watch the playoffs this year....with a more tuned in eye.

Very nice layout
The book is layed out well, and the drills are helpful.My only disappointment was that the book is taylored to older kids who can more readily grasp the basic concepts.Most of the book is too advanced for Mites and squirts.

A good resource for more advanced teams
A good resource for an inexperienced coach to find the info needed to introduce the X's and O's to a house Pee Wee team. Very helpfull

Great Coach's Manual
My son is the head coach of a Tier 1 girls hockey team.This manual has been invaluable for developing plays, systems and a players manual.I highly recommend this to any serious coach.

A good book
Over-all this was an easy to read and understand book. The special teams aspect of the book lack 5-3's on the power plays and penality killing. ... Read more

Book Description
In the mold of our very popular series of state alphabet books, we offer Z is for Zamboni to hockey fans young and old across North America. Matt Napier's "breakaway" rhymes and "hard-checking" expository text team up with the "top-shelf" illustrations of Melanie Rose to elucidate this increasingly popular game for every beginning hockey aficionado. Highlighting rules, players, coaches, teams, and the history of the game, it is both fun and educational.

For more information on this titleclick here! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (24)

Cute book for hockey lovers-to-be
This board book goes through the entire alphabet, giving each letter it's own page and it's own hockey term or reference. The terms touch on the game of hockey itself and the history of the sport. However, I was a little disappointed in a few of the references.
There are some that are so old, obscure, or nonsensical that parents may not even know what it means or who the person is (e.g. "Y is for two glorious Canadian Years-- the Summit Series and the Salt Lake Games"; huh?) More than a few are just plain unimaginative. And there are plenty of terms I would like to have seen in the book but didn't. There's no Playoffs, no Faceoff, no Net. It refers to the Stanley Cup as "Lord Stanley's Cup" (putting it under the letter L) which is technically correct but isn't how it's really referred to.
Also, the writing is iffy at best. Nothing rhymes or has any sort of rhythm whatsoever, and at times really isn't even grammatically structured very well.
Overall, though, even though it doesn't sound like it, I do like the book. Most of my dislikes are nitpicky. It's a cute book, especially for the hockey fan who wants to get their kid into it the sport as well. It's a fun and educational read.

one year old knows the sport thanks to this book
I bought this book for my husband to read to our [..] son.It's been a year since we've been reading it and now whenever we get the book out, Ben has to run and get his mini "zamboni tractor" and mini hockey stick that we bought him separately.He holds them tight and at each page he points and repeats hockey terminology.Even when we're not reading the book, the terms stick with him. At about 20 months, when I had my arms folded, Ben said to me "Mommy ref".This is thanks to one illustration, the referee has his arms crossed for the interference call.This book is for hockey loving families and fans of all ages.

Best Buy
Hands down, my 18 month olds favorite book. Beautifully illustrated - he looks at the pictures all day. Very durable and highly recommended.

Z Is For Zamboni:A Hockey Alphabet Edition 1
This book is a great way to work with the ABC's when you have a classful of sports-minded boys.Being a primary teacher, I am always looking for different approaches to the alphabet.What a great way to interest boys.I first heard this book from the Philadelphia Flyers/Phantoms Organization.They came to our school for an assembly.Since it was a little over our children's heads, they read this book to them instead.The children were enthralled.I then had to order it to become a permanent part of my personal school library!Not only does it explain the basics of hockey, it brings in some of its history.Very enjoyable!!

Z is for Zamboni: A Hockey Alphabet Edition
This is the very best of Zach's collection of books.I am so glad I found it on your website!It has great pictures and a nice story.He has me read it all the time.
Jan ... Read more

Book Description
Nearly all kids who learn to play hockey dream of becoming a hockey star. In this book, Kimberly Jo Simac shows beginning hockey players that this dream can become a reality. Beautifully illustrated, this book introduces budding young hockey players to the sport's team spirit, challenges and rewards.

Through this rhythmic story, youngsters will learn that hockey is a life-long journey that requires committment and dedication. They also will discover that for team players who learn to accept defeat and graciously claim victory, the rewards are great.

Hockey is a great sport that encourages families to spend time together. It leaves an indelible stamp on the lives of all dedicated players. It allows hockey stars to shine, not only on the ice, but also in many other arenas of life.

When I Grow Up I'm Going To Be A Hockey Star is a book for all who love to skate or who dream of it. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Get Em Started Early
Both my sons played hockey and their little sister lived at the rink watching their practices and games. My advice to parents is the younger you get em started the more fun they'll have and the better players they'll be. This is a great book to get them interested early. The story line and illustrations will have them begging you to read this over and over. My wife and I spent 14 years watching our sons play and now my son's a coach and our grandson plays. I can't think of a better book to get your child started.

When I Grow Up I'm Going to be a Hockiey Star
My 3 yr old grandson loves this and is among his favorite night time readings.I have bought several hockey related books for your website.
Thank you for your prompt service and great selections.
Jan

For The Kid Who Dreams Hockey
This is a wonderful book for your little hockey star.Filled with beautiful vibrant pictures and following an excellent story, this is a must have for your kid.

For Kids who love Hockey
If your child LOVES hockey - they will enjoy this book. Very easy to read (I suggest for kids 7 and under), with great artwork/pictures.

Hockey Star Book for Young Ones
This is a fantastic book for the younger hockey fan.My son eats, sleeps and breathes hockey and wanted a hockey book that he could read himself.Most beginning reader hockey books are "childish" in nature (ex. Franklin the turtle, Arthur from PBS) and he wanted one that was really about non-fiction hockey, but for his reading level.This book is just perfect for that!Great story, inspiring for little hockey stars in the making. ... Read more

Product Description
The Ultimate Guide to Weight Training for Hockey is the most comprehensive and up-to-date hockey-specific training guide in the world today. It contains descriptions and photographs of over 80 of the most effective weight training, flexibility, and abdominal exercises used by athletes worldwide. This book features year-round hockey-specific weight-training programs guaranteed to improve your performance and get you results.

No other hockey book to date has been so well designed, so easy to use, and so committed to weight training. This book will have players increasing speed, strength, power, agility, and stamina while reducing chances of injury. This book guarantees more velocity and accuracy on slap shots, more power on checks, and more endurance making it possible to give it your all until the final whistle.

Both beginners and advanced athletes and weight trainers can follow this book and utilize its programs. From recreational to professional, thousands of athletes all over the world are already benefiting from this book and its techniques, and now you can too!

As an added bonus, this book also contains links to free record keeping charts which normally sell separately for $20. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

New Edition is Way Better
I'm a multi sport athlete who trains all year round regardless of what sport I play. I bought a few of these Ultimate Guide to Weight Training books, and they definitely helped me train specifically for the different sports that I play. Then about a year later I received an email from amazon that there was a new edition out.These upgraded editions are even better than the originals, with more articles and a lot more sport-specific information. I would definitely recommend this series to anyone who plays a lot of sports or wants to specifically focus on training for one sport in particular.

This book is a MUST-BUY for serious hockey players
Use it in the summer - Use it in the winter -

Just get this book!It will have you in great shape for the season.I can 'check' much harder now, but more importantly I can skate faster, and my shots have more velocity.You'll see what i mean after a few weeks of following the hockey specific programs in this book. ... Read more

Book Description
Lavishly illustrated, beautifully designed, impeccably researched, and wonderfully written, Hockey: A People’s History is the altogether irresistible companion book to the CBC-Television series of the same name, airing in Fall 06. A must-have for every fan!

Hockey is not just Canada’s national game, it is part of every Canadian’s psyche, whether we like it or not. Watching it, playing it, coaching it, and talking about it are up there with eating on the list of the top ten things Canadians do most. In the first half of the last century it mirrored our increasing confidence as a nation and in the last years of the 1900s, which saw an aggressive but unsettling expansion of the game south of the border, it reflected our growing wariness of American influence on Canada.

Hockey: A People’s History, like the ten-part CBC series it accompanies, tells the story of this breathtakingly fast game from its hotly contested origins, and the surge in its popularity after 1875, when it was first taken inside, through the rise and fall and rise again of women’s hockey, the sagas of long-lost leagues, such as the Pacific Coast Hockey League and, more recently, the World Hockey Association, to the present day and the first-ever lockout of players by the one remaining league. In that time, while play has changed only slightly (every generation of Canadians has complained about the growing violence of the game) hockey itself has been transformed from a rough and ready winter sport to a business worth many billions of dollars, played by millionaires.

But Hockey: A People’s History is not a business story, rather, it is the story of the men and woman who helped make the game what it is today.

It also tells the story of all the great moments in hockey: not just the unforgettable 1972 victory against Russia, but victories no less glorious at the time, such as the Leafs’ previously unheard-of third consecutive Stanley Cup in 1949. Through its lavishly illustrated pages skate the players, the coaches, the owners, many of them still legendary, too many of them almost forgotten. They are the reason why Canadians have stayed true to the game. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

A Great History of Hockey with Many Photos
This book is an outstanding history of the sport of hockey. I saw the Canadian multi-part TV program of the same name several years ago and always wanted to get this companion book. I'm glad I finally did. This is a beautifully done book, with many color and black and white photos from throughout the history of hockey. It's really a coffee table style book, oversized and with many photos. It's true the book is a little oriented more towards the Canadian perspective, but not overly so.

I highly recommend this book to hockey fans everywhere...and if you ever get a chance to watch the TV show, do it. One of the best I've seen about the sport.

A GreatHistory
Having been a Hockey buff for just over 50 years, I found this volume to be the most comprehensive and complete treatment of the subject that I have read over the years, having read several.It reveals some information not generally known to those not in the "industry".I found this book to be a fascinating, don't want to put it down read. My congratulations to Michael Mckinley.

A beautiful book that brings the history of the game alive...
If you're a hockey fan with an appreciation for the history of the game, *this* is the book you need to read...Hockey: A People's History by Michael McKinley.This both entertained and educated me, and brought the history of hockey alive in a way I've never seen it before.

Contents: Prologue; The Temple and the Chalice; Gold After Silver; Blood and Champagne; The Dustbowl Dream; A Cool Medium; Us and Them; The Soul of a Nation; Hope and Betrayal; The Winter of Our Discontent; Reclaiming the Game; Acknowledgements; Index

This is a coffee-table companion book to a CBC series of the same name.Not living in Canada, I can't say I've seen the series.But if it's anything like the book, it must be outstanding.McKinley goes back to the beginning of the game we know as hockey, back to 1875 when the first game was played in Montreal.Many other variations of the game existed before then, but generally speaking, this is when the game started in its modern form.Lavishly illustrated, he works his way up through time, from the birth of the Stanley Cup to the lockout season of 2004-2005.In between, you learn about the great names of the sport who often are just names attached to trophies unless you know the history...Hobie Baker, Frank Calder, Conn Smythe, and many others.The stories of teams put together to challenge for the Stanley Cup, back in the day when it was up for grabs to just about anyone.There's even coverage of the Portland Rosebuds, who challenged the Montreal Canadiens in 1916.Junior and women's hockey also figure prominently in the story, so whatever your particular interest niche is for the game, you'll find it in here.

I remember a few years back when my kids attended a hockey camp in Penticton, British Columbia.The final day included a game played in the city arena that was home to the Penticton Vees.It's an old-time barn, with plenty of memorabilia from years gone by.But until I read this book, I didn't realize just how big a deal that team was.That team went over to Germany in 1955 and beat the Russian team for the World Championships, and was the toast of Canada in the midst of the Cold War tension of the time.Walking through the arena, you could almost feel the ghosts of history, the thousands of games that had been played there.It's hard to explain, but hockey in Canada is more than just a sport, it's a national identity and obsession.

I don't know that I've spent as much time lingering and savoring a book than I did this one.It's a pleasure to read, and will add immensely to your understanding and respect of the game.
... Read more

Book Description
Increase strength to carry the puck through traffic. Pack morepower when checking an opponent. Improve quickness and agility and createangles for higher-percentage shots. Complete Conditioning for Hockeyshows you how to achieve all of these performance goals and more!

Hockey players are bigger, faster, and stronger than ever before. Thisspecial book and DVD package features a comprehensive training approachthat will build players' physical abilities as well as the hockey-specificskills required for skating, puck handling, passing, shooting, and bodychecking. The book contains assessment tests for determining a player'sfitness status along with specific programs designed to improve balance,quickness, agility, speed, and strength. The DVD puts the training intoaction, demonstrating key tests, exercises, and drills from the book.

With specific guidelines for seasonal workouts, Complete Conditioningfor Hockey provides a multidimensional training approach that will showyou how to get the most from your time in the gym and on the ice. ... Read more

Book Description

"This is a great book that touches on the most important parts of the game: sportsmanship, discipline, and most importantly, fun.—Larry Robinson, member of the Hockey Hall of Fame, six-time Stanley Cup Champion

Coach. You thought you were just going to sign up your child for the youth league, but when no one else stepped forward, you volunteered to coach the team. But you can't tell a flip pass from a slap shot or an angle check from a hip check! Don't panic—Coaching Youth Hockey is here to help.

From your first team meeting to the season-ending pizza party, Coaching Youth Hockey will get you started and keep you going. You'll learn how to teach the fundamental skills of passing, stickhandling, shooting, and checking. You'll even learn to develop your own coaching style—one that works best for you and your players. Before you know it, you'll be coaching players who are moving, motivated, and most of all, having fun.

• Survive your first practice and first game
• Match drills to ability
• Make practices safe, fun, and rewarding
• Improve your players and your team
• Reach all your players
• Be the coach you never had

"Bruce Driver's success as a player came from being a student of the game. He has applied his knowledge of hockey to this coaching guide in an extremely thorough way. A must-read for all youth coaches."—Grant Standbrook, head recruiter and assistant coach, Maine Black Bears; former head coach, Dartmouth College ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Aresh Look At Developing New Hockey Players
If you've wondered what's happened to Stanley Cup winner Bruce Driver since he wrapped up his illustrious 15-year career playing hockey with the New Jersey Devils, you'll find the answer in the new book, "The Baffled Parent's Guide to Coaching Youth Hockey".Admirably, Driver has been teaching young, would-be hockey stars the secrets of the game.
Don't be put off by the long title - in this volume, Driver, and co-author Clare Wharton have scored a major goal with this highly readable and entertaining offering.If you've stumbled across it, you've found treasure.Driver has wisely teamed up with Wharton, a skilled writer with an extensive background in Hockey.She has taken the shoulder pads, the knee pads, the helmet and skates of the material and, with humor, molded them into a star of the ice.
With sections on everything needed for first-time and veteran coaches alike, NHL drills appropriate for youth hockey, proven team-management techniques, tips on teaching and understanding hockey fundamentals and so much more, Driver lets us in on all of his secrets.
Hockey moms (and they are legion) who have had to spend endless afternoons - and early mornings, if time on the ice is limited - driving their little Drivers to the ice rink for practice, and dads, stuck at work but footing the bills for all that expensive equipment, will be happy to learn, through this enlightening tome, what happens to junior once he gets there.
"The Baffled Parent's Guide to Coaching Youth Hockey" is a winner!Anyone with even a passing interest in hockey, or sports in general, will find Bruce Driver and Clare Wharton's book a delightful experience.


Art Scott
Mystery writer
And Historian

Great book that touches on every aspect
Overall, this is a great book that touches on all aspects of hockey. I am a high school hockey coach and this book has some really nice drills and information in it. We are using a couple already in practice that work great. One thing that I was hoping for (4 stars instead of 5)was a little more intense drills or more detailed info for the higher levels of hockey.Also, it only has 3 goalie drills which was a little disturbing. As a goalie coach as well as an assistant, I find that upsetting since the position is so important, but yet it's the most overlooked. However if you are a parent or coach looking for a book that touches on every aspect of hockey as well as drills this is definitely the one. I do find the parts on dealing with parents and setting up practice plans also helpful. It was well written and has a lot of great info from an NHL player and Stanley Cup winner. It is one of the best books that puts it all together for you to learn the sport of hockey. I would suggest picking up the book: Complete hockey instruction by Dave Chambers with this book and as far as goaltending is concerned, go to www.hockeygoaltender.com. That has some of the best info concerning that position. With these 3 items you would have a pretty good arsenal on coaching and understanding the sport.

Unsurpassed Clarity, Detail & Readability!
I was floored by thoroughness of expertise and professionalism in this book, which goes hand-in-hand with the sheer passion for the game and wisdom in teaching children that comes through on every page.No detail of technique, sportsmanship or strategy is left out here, and the book is as useful a guide for would-be coaches inexperienced in the ways of the game as it is for veteran coaches looking broaden their knowledge base.

Bruce Driver's talent both as a former Stanley Cup winner and a long time coach combined with Clare Wharton's flawless and engaging writing style makes this book an absolute must for hockey lovers new and old.

REFEREE RECOMMENDATION
As a USA Hockey certified Referee I recommend this book to anyone involved in youth hockey at any level.This is how hockey should be taught.

This book has it all
A complete resource for coaches, yes, but also something every hockey fan and parent should read too.Presented in a concise and logical manner, with no detail left out.Extensive photos and drill diagrams for all situations.I found it to be very well written. ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (7)

As good as I remember
I'm glad that they are republishing Jolly Roger Bradfield's books.I had this book when I was a child.I remember loving it then, and getting it now to share with my children is even better.The artwork is fun and creative.The storyline is imaginative and when I read it to my children, I can see their minds working.I definitely recommend this to anyone who wants a good children's book!

Perfect!
This is a book that my Grandpa used to read to me as a child every time I went to visit him.It brings back great memories and I couldn't wait to share it with my kids.I also bought one for him as a Christmas present, as I have found that his copy has gone missing.LOVE THIS BOOK! - Also, came very fast in perfect condition!

Favorite childrens' book
This was my favorite childrens book growing up.Years later, when I had my first child, we searched high and low for a copy.This book must come back into print.

Inventive Fun
This delightful story consistently brings instant smiles to the faces of young children. Jolly Rodger Bradfield's masterful storytelling ability captures the undivided attention of listeners/readers.Over my past 33 years as an educator, I have shared this book with literally thousands of children.The response is always the same, joy!

The Flying Hockey Stick my all time favorite childrens story
If you ever wanted to read a remarkable book that will entise your imagination. This is the book. I remember reading this book every eveningas a child. Barnaby Jones and his adventure always made my mind wonder andmade me think of what I could invent. If your looking to make your child'screativity shine through then this is the book for you. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Best book ever for my 3 year old dino enthusiast!
What an excellent book!The writing is clever and the illustrations are amazing -- they have a lifelike quality and you can almost hear the dinos roaring.The illustrations manage to look appropriately frightening yet friendly at the same time, and my 3 year old can't get enough of this book.The best part is, the adults love reading it as much as the kids because it is so entertaining and exciting to read. The author uses the real names of the dinos, so it also is quite educational.The meateaters vs. veggiesaurs theme helped my toddler understand the different types of dinosaurs.What a cute touch that each dinosaur has his name on his hockey jersey and on the scoreboard.There are also several subtle yet important lessons that come out, such as when you behave badly you go in the "penalty box."And of course after insisting on reading this book at least 6 times per day, my toddler even finally understands how to play hockey and other ball games by analogy.This is one of the best children's books I've seen for a young dinosaur enthusiast. ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description

Customer Reviews (4)

Great for the Beginner but still Darn Good for Anyone
I've written a couple of 1-star product reviews, so it's about time I had something good to say. (See, I actually was paying attention, Mom!)

This book contains a load of beginner-oriented advice on equipment buying. Unfortunately, I learned a few of the lessons the hard way when I started playing a few years ago. There is also plenty of info relevant to the more experienced player, such as which portions of a skate boot can be custom fit and how it is done. I didn't know that helmets had expiration dates, did you? It makes perfect sense; all my safety equipment at work has one, so why not a hockey helmet? It's just something I never thought about.

Everything is presented with an incredible sense of humor, making it a quick and easy read. The various "why not to buy used equipment" parts are particularly amusing (to me). I also like the handy tip about using the face mask as a bottle opener.

If you are just thinking about playing hockey or if you are in the market for some new equipment, this is well worth the $10. I wish I had read this before I purchased my first stuff a few years ago.

Excellent book full of humor...perfect for any beginner
This book was great. It helped straighten out a few things I was not sure about with equipment in hockey and how it should fit. Wish I had bought it before I started my first season instead of half way through. His humor is great and most of what he jokes about if you've played hockey you can relate too. Several times I found myself laughing out loud. This isn't going to tell you what drills to work on to be a good player, or even how to shoot a puck better than you do already. What this will do is explain the equipment, what its used for, how to wear it, and when to buy it. He goes through every piece of the sport that a new person should get to know before going out and playing. Explaining the positions, the rules, getting in with the refs, rec league stuff, and even what beer to bring for after the game with your new team. This book is a must read for any new hockey player and would be a great read for those who have played hockey just to get some good laughs. Its not a long book so it should take much to knock it out even if your not much of a reader (like me).

For the Rookie, and the Skate Buyer
A fun read.For the rookie, a great book to provide some street (or rink) smarts.For more experienced players it includes great information on buying new equipment.The chapter on skate buying is probably the best, and will save people (or at the very least be worth) the $10 they pay for the book in getting the right skates.Doesn't include much in the way of even basic strategy, which could maybe be volume 2.

Witty and great insight
I loved reading Noble's book. I have played hockey for over two decades and still learned what he had to offer. While the book is geared towards those interested in beginning to play hockey, I highly enjoyed the witty humor and insight into the game. ... Read more

Book Description
Develop the focus, tenacity, poise, and team attitude needed to excel on the ice. Hockey Tough builds on physical skills by strengthening mental factors that apply directly to the game. Performance consultant Saul Miller presents the training techniques he has taught hockey players and teams for more than 20 years throughout North America. In addition, NHL stars such as Mark Messier, Pavel Bure, Chris Pronger, Steve Yzerman, and Markus Naslund offer inside tips on how to play with a winning mind-set. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Hockey Tough is a Great Book!
I've played ice hockey on and off my whole life, but it seemed like my game had hit a wall. I did not feel like I was improving any longer. Instead I felt I was doomed to be an average player forever. About 6 months ago I discovered Hockey Tough and it has changed the way I look at my game. Furthermore my game has improved because my confidence has improved. Now all of my teammates want to borrow it. If you buy this book do us all a favor and keep it a secret.

Wonderful
This book is wonderful!I am a hockey mom and refer back to it all the time to help my 11 year old AAA player.

If you play or coach, this is the book for you
Wow, what a great book. I've played hockey all my life and now I coach my son's team and I only wish I had found this book sooner. It's full of info on how to be a better player and a better coach. It's very straightforward and easy to read and gets at the heart of what it takes to be a mentally strong player. The exercises deal with visualization, focus, breathing, relaxation, and setting goals. They're easy, quick, and you notice a difference right away.

If you're either a player or a coach you should definitely check this book out. ... Read more

Book Description
In the days of Roch’s childhood, winters in the village of Ste. Justine were long. Life centered around school, church, and the hockey rink, and every boy’s hero was Montreal Canadiens hockey legend Maurice Richard. Everyone wore Richard’s number 9. They laced their skates like Richard. They even wore their hair like Richard. When Roch outgrows his cherished Canadiens sweater, his mother writes away for a new one. Much to Roch’s horror, he is sent the blue and white sweater of the rival Toronto Maple Leafs, dreaded and hated foes to his beloved team. How can Roch face the other kids at the rink? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Started out great, but the ending was odd
The story started out great.A little boy who wanted to be like his Hockey idol.He had always worn the same jersey for years, but this year his Mom bought him a jersey from a different team.He was not happy.But he wears the jersey anyway.The ending is what was weird.It was like it was missing some pages or something.It just didn't end well in my opinion.

The Cultural tension of Canada told through hockey
The Hockey Sweater is a book that I grew up loving and when I entered Teacher's College (Primary) I made it priority to have it in my library. I have found the book is excellent to read to students of all ages. The religious connotation is not a problem for public schools as long as a pre-intro is given to tell children that the Quebe education system was for the majority made up of Catholic schools.
Living in a different country where ice hockey is not well known it has been a perfect book to describe hockey, which I get a lot of questions about. For the older students I have used it too describe the hidden cultural tension that exists behind the sport.I.E. the french and english rivalary and then expanded this to incorporate how rugby for example is similar when we look at New Zealand...North and South Island or even in a larger context....New Zealand versus Australia.

blah ending
what i thought would be a great book for my 2 hockey players ( ages 6 + 9), we were all dissapointed in the ending.the story builds as the boy is the only one with a different sweater from everyone else.Instead of something great happening to him, it ends with him in church praying that moths eat the sweater.period , thats the end. not very inspirational for your kids.want a great hockey book?get "The Magical Hockey Stick" its great!

Classic Canuck Childrens Book Hits Home with American Dude
The Hockey Sweater is such a nice little childrens book that can melt the heart of any hockey fan no matter how old. The book is great for young people, the illustrations are adorable and there is some hockey history laid in the book as well. It is a nice look back on a semi-forgotten time and it is nice to introduce old-school hockey to the youngsters. I am going to read this book to my nephew once he is old enough and if that is not recommendation enough to get your hands on this book yourself, then I am lost for words.

Great Candian Classic
Every Canadian or kost can relate to this book. It will make you want to go play hockey today. This good is great to read to those young kids that play hockey. ... Read more

Book Description
Henry, Jessie, Violet and Bennie have become friENDs with

Kevin Reynolds, their favorite hockey star. He wants to build

an ice rink in Greenfield, but now, equipment is missing,

and someone is trying to ruin plans for the rink. They must

help their new friEND solve this mystery! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

The Hockey Mystery.
I read The Hockey Mystery. I thought it was good because it is a boxcar children mystery and I like mystery books. In the beginning Jessie and her brothers and her sister saw Kevin Reynolds. Kevin Reynolds is going to coach a girl's hockey team. I think kids 5 and up will like it.

Great Book
The hockey mystery was great because you can learn a bit about hockey and the mystery was a great one. ... Read more