That’s Not Hockey!
by Andrée Poulin, illustrated by Félix Girard
★★★★★
He changed a sport forever!
That’s Not Hockey is a wonderfully illustrated story about Jacques Plante, who became a famous goalie for the Montreal Canadians, helping them win six Stanley cups and receiving seven Vezina best goalie torphies. The book has a vibrant spread for key moments in Jacques’ life, starting with his initial foray into a lifetime love of hockey at age three.
Jacque started his career using sticks and tennis balls, protected by potato sacks and wooden slats. He worked his way up with dedication, perseverance, and didn’t let what other people said deter him from his goals. Just a great all-around story with beautiful full-color illustrations that will capture a child’s imagination along with the story.
Recommended for children who love stories about sports, adversity, heroes, and bravery. Lots of conversation openers about persistence, what it takes to make a hero, standing up for what is right, protecting yourself as well as others, and being willing to be a pioneer despite criticism and opposition.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) from the publisher through NetGalley. My opinions are my own.
Book description
The legendary goalie who revolutionized the game of hockey.
Young Jacques Plante’s way of playing hockey may look different from everyone else’s. Instead of a puck, he uses a tennis ball, and his shin pads are made out of potato sacks and wooden slats. But that’s not going to stop him. He loves the game.
Jacques is drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in his mid-twenties. Fans love the unstoppable goalie as he leads his team to one victory after another. But there’s a price to pay: pucks to the face result in a broken jaw, broken cheekbones, multiple stitches, and even a skull fracture.
One day, Jacques has had enough. He goes on the ice wearing a fiberglass mask. The coach orders him to take it off.
Finally, at a game against the New York Rangers, when yet another puck hits Jacques square in the face, he puts his foot down. He will not continue to play unless he’s allowed to wear a mask.
Young hockey fans will enjoy this story of Jacques Plante, whose determination and love of the game brought about a revolutionary change to how it is played.
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