I had never heard of Manon Rhéaume before; I'm glad this book brought this history-setting woman to my attention. ( )

In true tale fashion, the inspiring account of Manon Rheaume's desire to play hockey despite gender borders comes to life.

Manon Rheaume grew up in Canada and loved playing goalie for her brother's backyard hockey games. When her father was missing a goalie for his younger team, she begged to take the spot. Despite reservations, her father agreed but only if she wasn't seen without her helmet to hide the fact that she was a girl. But Manon soon proved her place on the ice through her skills. When an American team owner saw her abilities on television, her hockey dreams took a leap she never thought possible.

This is a book, which screams inspiration. It starts out with Manon as a young girl, snuggling right up with readers as they're shown how normal she really is. The author goes step by step, allowing her fight and determination to come across clearly as well as her own realization that each new step might really be the highest rank she'd ever achieve. There isn't any bitterness on her part but simply the desire to play hockey and convince people of her right to be on the ice through her own capabilities and skills. It's inspiring without ever feeling exaggerated or fed with extra tension to make the story bigger and better. And I appreciated that.

The illustrations have a more realistic style to them, and these are well done. The text is heavy for young listeners and is more appropriate for slightly older readers, ages 6 and up. The tale is interesting and allows it to unfold in a true story fashion, making sure dates and details are left mostly to the side. These are then added at the end of the book in a timeline. There's also a letter from Manon herself, which adds a nice, personal touch.

Anyone who wants to learn more about Manon, women in hockey, loves hockey itself, or enjoys sport tales is sure to sink into these pages.
I received a complimentary copy and found it very well done. ( )