Top 10 Hockey Books

I had a request yesterday that I just couldn't resist. I realize I'm always making recommendations for hockey books, so making a top ten of my favorite hockey books was a brilliant idea. I'm going to preface this by saying that this is by no means a list of the greatest hockey books ever written. In fact, this is more an example of where my hockey interests lie.

10. The Code, by: Ross Bernstein- Perhaps a bit outdated now, but still really interesting for the perspective a lot of the players provide. Still a good look into why fighting in hockey happens and why it'll be around for awhile.

9. The Boys of Winter, by: Wayne Coffey- A really great look into the story behind the famous miracle on ice. I loved the detailed look at each one of the players and a the information on a lot of details you never hear about in the documentaries.

8. The Rebel League, by: Ed Willes- A great book about the insanity that was the WHA, and all the changes for the better its existence led to. It's hard to believe what the NHL might be like today if the WHA had never happened.
 
7. Jean Beliveau: My Life in Hockey, by: Jean Beliveau- An amazing look at an amazing man, in his own words. This book should be required reading for every single professional hockey player, and perhaps every fan.
 
6. Hockey Dad: True Confessions of a (Crazy) Hockey Parent, by: Bob McKenzie- Definitely the funniest book on this list, and probably the sweetest. It's written by current Everblade forward Mike McKenzie's dad, and it's well worth your time.

5. Saving Face: The Art and History of the Goalie Mask, by, Jim Hynes & Gary Smith- This is perhaps more of a coffee table book, but it's still a good read. It has absolutely beautiful pictures, as well as a very thorough overview of how the goalie mask evolved.

4. Pelle Lindbergh: Behind the White Mask, by Bill Meltzer & Thomas Tynander- A really interesting look at a promising goalie who had his life cut short too soon. I do not recommend reading this book in public if you cry easily. It's absolutely heartbreaking. It's still a good read though.

3. Hockey Night in Dixie, by, Jon C. Stott- I can't recommend this book enough to anyone who follows minor hockey or is a Southern hockey fan. It has the bonus of having a chapter devoted to the South Carolina Stingrays, and the Everblades get a mention or two in the book as well.

2. Zamboni Rodeo, by Jason Cohen- Another look into minor league hockey. This book focuses on one teams struggles throughout a really tumultuous season. I loved the focus on the players and their reasons for playing.

1. Jacques Plante: The Man Who Changed the Face of Hockey, by Todd Denault- I really can't say enough about this book. It's a well written look at a truly fascinating man. Definitely a must read.

Honorable mentions:

- Shorthanded: The Untold Story of the Seals, by Brad Kurtzberg- I just got this for Christmas and I'm really excited to dig into it. It is a bit big though...

- Ice Warriors, by: Jon C. Stott- Another Christmas book I can't wait to dig into.

- The Game, by: Ken Dryden- I've been stuck on the 85th page for months now. I have no idea why I can't get into this book, it really is interesting.

So, what about you guys? Any books you think are must reads?