Best Hockey Biographies Books of 2026

An illuminating glimpse into the solitary passions of one of our greatest artists, What I Talk About When I Talk About Running is a memoir about Haruki Murakami's intertwined obsessions with running and writing. Murakami decided to keep a journal of his progress while training for the New York City Marathon and the result is a rich and revelatory work that elevates the human need for motion to an art form. With spare, engaging prose, Murakami shares his runner's high and offers a genuine memoir, filled with gentle minutiae that truly communicates the rhythm of his daily life and work. This book is a graceful explanation of Mr. Murakami's intertwining obsessions, conveyed with his characteristic ability to draw unexpected connections.

The Ultimate Boston Bruins Trivia Book is a must-have for any die-hard Bruins fan. This book is full of incredible trivia, covering all aspects of the team's history, including their heated rivalries, ingenious nicknames earned by the players, and records set by some of the best athletes Boston has ever seen. The book is a page-turning dive into the world of the oldest American team in the NHL, from Orr to Chara, Espo to Bergeron, and Brimsek to Rask. The multiple choice questions, true or false factoids, and quirky anecdotes make it a fun and engaging read. Overall, this book is a great way to impress your family and friends with your die-hard knowledge of the Boston Bruins.

Hockey Legends Alphabet is a beautifully illustrated alphabet reference book that celebrates the greatest hockey players of all time. The book features legends like Wayne Gretzky and Sidney Crosby, and is perfect for young hockey fans who are just starting to learn about the sport. The stunning illustrations make this book a must-have for any hockey enthusiast, and it serves as both a fun read and an educational tool. Overall, Hockey Legends Alphabet is a fantastic addition to any bookshelf and a great way to introduce children to the world of hockey.

The Ultimate New York Rangers Trivia Book is a must-read for die-hard Rangers fans and trivia enthusiasts. The book covers the franchise's history from its debut in 1926-27 to the present day. It includes 15 quizzes consisting of 300 questions and 150 "Did You Know?" facts that will challenge even the most knowledgeable fans. From famous characters such as Wayne Gretzky and Mark Messier to the team's struggles and successes, this book has it all. If you want to be the ultimate Rangers expert, this book is for you.

Head On: A Memoir by Larry Csonka is a captivating and nostalgic account of grit, grace, and gumption told by an iconic Hall of Famer who continues to gain ground every day. Csonka shares how he and his 1972 Miami Dolphins teammates achieved their legendary Perfect Season. The book is insightful, compelling, humorous, vulnerable, and refreshingly frank. Csonka's authentic voice and unfiltered brand of storytelling make this book a must-read for fans of the game or anyone who loves high adventure. This book is a unique and candid look into the life of a larger-than-life football figure.

The book "1972: The Series That Changed Hockey Forever" by Scott Morrison tells the story of the legendary Summit Series between Canada and the Soviet Union. Morrison uses a storyteller's voice to reveal what it meant to hockey then and what it means now. With stories from players and others involved in the series, the book sheds new light on those incredible games and times. This book is a must-read for any hockey fan or anyone interested in the history of sports. Overall, Morrison does an excellent job of capturing the drama and significance of this historic event, making it a unique and compelling read.

Rising From the Deep by Geoff Baker is a captivating read that tells the story of how the Seattle Kraken, the National Hockey League's newest expansion franchise, came to be. The book traces the origins of the team, from the history of Seattle hockey in the early 20th century to the winter sports void left by the bitter departure of the Sonics. Baker takes readers behind the scenes and back to the start with power brokers, players, and fans in this fascinating, hard-fought saga. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in sports, civics, and regional identity, as it offers a multifaceted narrative of launching a franchise from the ground up.

The Boys of Winter by Wayne Coffey is an exceptional book that narrates the incredible story of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team and the Miracle on Ice. Coffey provides a fresh perspective on the event and details the chemistry of the team led by an unconventional coach, Herb Brooks. He also traces the lives of the players and coaches after their stunning victory, examining how the Olympic events affected them. The book is a heartwarming portrayal of one Friday night in Lake Placid and the enduring power of the extraordinary. Overall, The Boys of Winter is a captivating read that enriches the greatest sports moment of the twentieth century.

The Game: 30th Anniversary Edition is a timeless classic that provides a reflective and thought-provoking look at a life in hockey. Ken Dryden, former Montreal Canadiens goalie, gives vivid and affectionate portraits of the characters who made the Canadiens of the 1970s one of the greatest hockey teams in history. In addition, Dryden reflects on life on the road, in the spotlight, and on the ice, offering a rare inside look at the game of hockey and an incredible personal memoir. The new foreword by Bill Simmons, new photography, and a new chapter, “The Game Goes On,” make this commemorative edition even more special. This is a must-read for all hockey fans.

Mark Messier's "No One Wins Alone" is an inspirational memoir that goes beyond his remarkable success in professional hockey to share the lessons he learned about leadership and teamwork. Messier's story is not just about hockey but also about his family, the power of respect, and the importance of overcoming challenges. The book is well-written, substantial, and offers insights into success and winning cultures that can be applied in sports, business, or life. Messier's generosity of spirit and keen observation of people make this memoir a rare delight.