Willie: The Game-Changing Story of the NHL's First Black Player

The journey this athlete took on should inspire others to follow in his footsteps. However, the lesson of bigotry and racism should make all of us realize how difficult it is for minorities to pursue their dreams in professional sports . Kudos to those like Willie whom push ever onwards!

Very great book. It was enjoyable and sad at times due to what all he had to go through during the time period. I got this book b/c I not only wanted to learn more about him but also the history of ice hockey and how it was for a black player. He had to endure a lot and with one blind eye. I don’t want to give away the story but it’s definitely worth reading if you’re interested in his life story. It’s a quick read too

The best and most honest hockey book I have read. Very enjoyable.Highly recommend.

Enjoyable reading about a young black man from a small town in Canada, who ends up with only one functioning eye, following a dream to make the NHL, in times that people of color were not in the sport, like other sports.(only a bit different today).Back stories of athletes are often enlightening and informative.But this one is special in my opinion.As an ex Frederictonian, and ex amateur hockey player myself, this story had a great feeling.A must read for every Frederictonian,every New Brunswicker,every Canadian,every hockey fan,and everyone who has ever read books about people overcoming tough odds.Tribute also to Willie, for all the work he has done since his playing career ended. After all he went through he chose to give back immensely, to multiple causes and youth programs, that promote following dreams by his own example.

If you want to know the real and true information about Black playing Hockey, you need to read this book. It's not that Blacks can't skate or haven't been exposed to the sport. It's a lot more complexed than that. There's some really great history and knowledge in this book that's been hidden or unexposed to for quite some time. Read this book, good and filled with knowledge that I should have been made aware of years ago.