This hockey primer is the latest in a series of board books designed to introduce youngsters to various sports.
The design concept here is simple and effective. Stock visuals are paired with words to introduce the gear, positions, and concepts related to hockey, including, for example, hockey stick, puck, save, penalty box, goalie, pass, shoot, and more. The images are vivid, dynamic, and appealing, and they feature boys and girls of various ages and different races engaged in the game. Like the other titles in this series, this one provides neither context for the images nor background information about hockey, its equipment, or its basic rules. This isn’t a problem, though; it simply ensures that each time through the book is a different experience, as the words and pictures spark new conversations. The very similar, simultaneously publishing title, My First Tennis Book, is another strong addition to this growing set.
The combination of spare text with appealing visuals makes this a great entry point into the world of hockey for eager, pint-sized participants.
(Board book. 2-5)