99: Stories of the Game

For the National Hockey League’s 99th season, Gretzky (number 99), its greatest player ever, offers a look at back at some of hockey’s pivotal moments and its greatest pioneers—and for hockey fans, the book is great fun. Gretzky’s well-known love for the game and respect for its history are evident in his narration. The book breezes through short histories of NHL teams, from the formation of the original six teams to expansion and the World Hockey Association, as well as memorable events such as the 1972 Summit Series between Canada and the U.S.S.R., the Miracle on Ice, and the 1984 and 1987 Canada Cup tournaments. And of course the book is filled with a robust cast of great players, from the NHL’s original superstar, Howie Morenz, to Gordie Howe, Gretzky’s teammates and contemporaries, and the influx of great Russian and European players. There is even a short chapter on the experiences of hockey’s first black players, Willie O’Ree and Herb Carnegie. It’s fun to have “the Great One” narrate some of hockey’s key moments, but the book feels hastily assembled, and for hardcore NHL fans, much of the history will be familiar. The book also lacks any real insights or revelations from Gretzky’s own playing days. He remains one of hockey’s great ambassadors, but as a hockey historian, he just misses the net. (Oct.)