Puckster’s New Hockey Teammate by Loran Shultz Nicholson

Puckster’s New Hockey Teammate

Loran Shultz Nicholson
Illustrated by Kelly Findley

Team Canada is down 2-1 and one of their key players is not feeling well.  As he misses a pass and falls down in fatigue Puckster realizes that a replacement is needed.  This is when he notices someone new playing outside the arena and a plan forms in Puckster’s mind.

This story describes sportsmanship in a way a child can understand.  Through the patience of team members to teach Panda the rules of hockey as well as the moves we see a team spirit.  Winning isn’t the goal of the team or of this story.  Doing your best, supporting other team members, being a gracious loser and enjoying the game are all objectives brought out in a fun way through the text. 

The text uses real hockey jargon and describes well the aspects of the game.  It also explains why you need to be at top form to play well because hockey is a demanding sport.  Reading this story a child will understand more why all members of a sports team are needed and valuable not just the players that are often highlighted in sports news.

The story absolutely does not drag.  It is just the right length for young readers to get the full story but not become bogged down with too much information.  The illustrations have accurate details that will delight hockey fans.

I received this book free from the publishers in exchange for my honest review.