Customer Reviews

The Autobiography of Willie O'Ree : Hockey's Black Pioneer (NHL)

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This book is about perseverance. Mr. O'Ree tells his story with honesty. He does not hesitate to mention racial situations and his personal pain. I admire his ability to not give up on his "NHL" goal. It gives us average people hope for today and the future. I am awed by the obstacles he overcame to become the first black player in the NHL. Since I am a American, Black female hockey fan, I know the amount of awe people have when I say this so I cannot imagine being in his position. Mr. O'Ree does not hesitate to let you know he was thankful for his family and their support. I found this very appealing because most people "make it" so to speak and people begin calling them self-made but I am willing to wager that most people receive a little help and encouragement from someone on their journey.
Mr. O'Ree does not lack confidence in his abilities as he often states he was a natural and good athlete but it is not said with the same cockiness most professioanl athletes use today. I love to read about any athlete who does not have negative attachments to them.
This is a book that those historical organizations especially the ones who proclaim they speak for minorities should read, digest and submit to be read to young athletes so they understand that for them to have the opportunities they have today, to be paid exprbant salaries to play a gave, the road had to be paved by someone and Mr. O'Ree is definitely one of those trailblazers.

Although geared towards young adults, I think that everyone who is a hockey fan can benefit from reading this book. It is an inspirational story of someone who despite daily facing unjust restrictions and attitudes, persisted in pursuing a career in the game that he loved most: hockey.

I liked this book because I play hockey and I am African-American. Willie O'Ree was a great guy and I never heard of him before reading this book.