A positive story about teamwork with the "Great One". The story is obviously about hockey but you do not need to be a hockey fan to enjoy the message. ( )

Ok, I judged this book by its cover so I didn't think I would enjoy it that much. However, it was a nice little read with a good message for my son. I didn't think he would necessarily take to it given the type of books he usually gravitates towards. On several occasions he has picked it for his book when we are going somewhere in the car so I guess I was wrong again. Good book.

Taylor is so excited to make the hockey team. He is up so early in the morning, he wakes everyone up to get to practice. He has a kid on his team named Wayne who everyone says it Great. His dad is the coach, Coach Wally. Taylor wants to be great too, but he has a lot to learn. Coach Wally is very encouraging and just tells the kids not to worry about being the best player, just be the best you can be. A positive message for any child playing a team sport. This book stresses work hard, do your best and above all else, have fun. The illustrations are bright and colourful. The characters have wonderful facial expressions. I recommend this book to all public and school libraries.

Thanks to Netgalley and Penguin Random House Canada, Puffin for the opportunity to read and review this book. This is my honest and unbiased review. ( )

The pedigree of the family alone would draw in hockey fans but this book is thoughtful enough to transcend enthusiasm for the sport and deliver a solid message.

The book follows the struggles of a boy trying to adapt to the higher demands of a star-studded hockey team including a savant player whose presence along intimidates. It is intimated that is a big fish in little pond gets moved into bigger pond type scenario. The boy struggles with his own expectations and his perceptions of the expectations of others.

Devoted coaching and encouragement to examine his position in a different way reinforces lessons learned on ice, in games, and in the locker room. The boy's coach guides the boy to examine his motivations and discover his own talents instead of comparing himself to others only.

The writing is decent but the message transcends those limitations much in the same way the appeal of the book transcends its hockey roots. ( )

What must it have been like growing up as Wayne Gretzky's brother?

Glen Gretzky writes about a boy who struggles to be great on an elite hockey team. Everyone else seems to be better than him even as he works very hard to improve. Trying to be the star player just makes things worse. The coach encourages him to keep his great attitude and work ethic, reminds him that his hockey ability is not what makes him great, and points him towards being a good team player.

While the details of the hockey games made my non-enthusiast mind wander, I imagine little hockey nuts would find them engaging. The book is a quick read that very much encourages a growth mindset, and is a good example of great coaching. I noticed there is a girl on the team, which I thought was a nice touch. The illustrations are sweet in a retro way.

Good for a young athlete dealing with disappointments.