Best Hockey Biographies Books of 2025

Wilson Cook Avatar
Wilson Cook
Last Updated: May 9, 2023

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Hockey Biographies Books are a must-read for any hockey enthusiast. These books offer an in-depth look at the lives of some of the greatest hockey players to ever grace the ice. From Wayne Gretzky to Bobby Orr, readers will gain insight into the struggles and triumphs these players faced throughout their careers. These biographies cover everything from their early beginnings to their rise to fame and beyond. With detailed accounts of their personal and professional lives, Hockey Biographies Books are a great way to learn more about the sport and the players who made it great.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

What I Talk About When I Talk About Running: A Memoir (Vintage International), Book Cover May Vary Cover #TOP 1
What I Talk About When I Talk About Running: A Memoir (Vintage International), Book Cover May Vary
ftb score rating icon 9.9
The Ultimate Boston Bruins Trivia Book: A Collection of Amazing Trivia Quizzes and Fun Facts for Die-Hard Bruins Fans! Cover #TOP 2
The Ultimate Boston Bruins Trivia Book: A Collection of Amazing Trivia Quizzes and Fun Facts for Die-Hard Bruins Fans!
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Hockey Legends Alphabet Cover #TOP 3
Hockey Legends Alphabet
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Hockey Biographies Books

What I Talk About When I Talk About Running: A Memoir (Vintage International), Book Cover May Vary

Murakami, Haruki
Vintage
Aug 11, 2009
What I Talk About When I Talk About Running: A Memoir (Vintage International), Book Cover May Vary Cover
What I Talk About When I Talk About Running: A Memoir (Vintage International), Book Cover May Vary

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: A Collection of Amazing Trivia Quizzes and Fun Facts for Die-Hard Bruins Fans!

Walker, Ray
HRP House
Aug 20, 2020
The Ultimate Boston Bruins Trivia Book: A Collection of Amazing Trivia Quizzes and Fun Facts for Die-Hard Bruins Fans! Cover
The Ultimate Boston Bruins Trivia Book: A Collection of Amazing Trivia Quizzes and Fun Facts for Die-Hard Bruins Fans!

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.

#TOP 3

Hockey Legends Alphabet

Feiner, Beck
Legends, Alphabet
Feiner, Beck
Mar 12, 2020
Hockey Legends Alphabet Cover
Hockey Legends Alphabet

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.

#TOP 4

The Ultimate New York Rangers Trivia Book: A Collection of Amazing Trivia Quizzes and Fun Facts for Die-Hard Rangers Fans!

Walker, Ray
Nov 3, 2020
The Ultimate New York Rangers Trivia Book: A Collection of Amazing Trivia Quizzes and Fun Facts for Die-Hard Rangers Fans! Cover
The Ultimate New York Rangers Trivia Book: A Collection of Amazing Trivia Quizzes and Fun Facts for Die-Hard Rangers Fans!

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

Csonka, Larry
Oct 4, 2022

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.

1972: The Series That Changed Hockey Forever

Morrison, Scott
May 3, 2022
1972: The Series That Changed Hockey Forever Cover
1972: The Series That Changed Hockey Forever

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: The Seattle Kraken, a Tenacious Push for Expansion, and the Emerald City's Sports Revival

Baker, Geoff
Nov 1, 2022
Rising From the Deep: The Seattle Kraken, a Tenacious Push for Expansion, and the Emerald City's Sports Revival Cover
Rising From the Deep: The Seattle Kraken, a Tenacious Push for Expansion, and the Emerald City's Sports Revival

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: The Untold Story of a Coach, a Dream, and the 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey Team

Coffey, Wayne
Morrow, Ken
Craig, Jim
Crown Publishers
Oct 25, 2005
The Boys of Winter: The Untold Story of a Coach, a Dream, and the 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey Team Cover
The Boys of Winter: The Untold Story of a Coach, a Dream, and the 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey Team

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.

#TOP 9

The Game: 30th Anniversary Edition

Dryden, Ken
Simmons, Bill
Triumph Books
Nov 1, 2013
The Game: 30th Anniversary Edition Cover
The Game: 30th Anniversary Edition

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.

#TOP 10

No One Wins Alone A Memoir

Messier, Mark
Roberts, Jimmy
Oct 26, 2021
No One Wins Alone A Memoir Cover
No One Wins Alone A Memoir

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.

Buying Guide Image

Finding the Best Hockey Biographies Books to Enrich Your Life

Introduction

Hockey fans looking to learn more about their favorite players and teams can find a wealth of information in biographies and memoirs. These books offer a unique perspective on the sport and provide insight into the lives and careers of some of hockey's most memorable figures. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right book. In this article, we will explore some key factors to consider when selecting a hockey biography and provide some recommendations for great reads.

Criteria for Selection

When choosing a hockey biography, there are several factors to consider:

  1. Subject matter: Do you have a particular player or team in mind that you are interested in learning more about? Look for books that focus on their careers and experiences.
  2. Author credibility: Consider the author's background and qualifications. Have they written other books on hockey or have they personally worked in the sport? This can give you a sense of their level of expertise and the depth of their research.
  3. Writing style: Some people prefer a more narrative-driven approach, while others may prefer a more analytical style. Think about what type of writing you enjoy and look for books that align with your preferences.
  4. Length: Hockey biographies can range from short novellas to lengthy tomes. Think about how much time you have to devote to reading and choose a book that fits your schedule.

Recommendations

With these criteria in mind, here are a few recommendations for great hockey biographies:

  1. "The Game: A Thoughtful and Provocative Look at a Life in Hockey" by Ken Dryden: This memoir by former Montreal Canadiens goaltender Ken Dryden is widely regarded as one of the best books ever written about the sport. Dryden offers a thoughtful and introspective look at his career, as well as the broader culture of hockey.
  2. "Gordie: A Hockey Legend" by Roy MacGregor: This biography of Gordie Howe, one of the greatest players in NHL history, is written by award-winning author and sports journalist Roy MacGregor. The book offers a thorough and well-researched look at Howe's life and career, and includes personal anecdotes from his family and teammates.
  3. "Hockey Tough: Mental Skills for On and Off the Ice" by Saul L. Miller: This book is not a traditional biography, but rather a guide to mental toughness for hockey players. Written by a sports psychologist, it offers practical strategies for improving focus, confidence, and resilience in the face of adversity.

Conclusion

There are many great hockey biographies out there to choose from, and the right book for you will depend on your interests and preferences. Whether you are looking for a personal memoir, a thorough history of a particular team or player, or a guide to mental toughness, there is a book out there that will suit your needs. With a little bit of research and consideration, you can find a hockey biography that will provide an engaging and enlightening read.

Editor's Notes

During our hockey biographies book research, we found 1,200+ hockey biographies book products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 14,322 customer reviews through our big data system to write the hockey biographies books list. We found that most customers choose hockey biographies books with an average price of $15.40.

Written by
Wilson Cook Avatar

Wilson Cook is a talented writer who has an MFA in creative writing from Williams College and has published more than 50 books acquired by hundreds of thousands of people from various countries by now. He is an inveterate reading lover as he has read a vast amount of books since childhood.