Leonetti and Thompson have together created an attractive picture book that will undoubtedly be a big hit with young hockey fans. Thompson has used a simple and effective folk art style of illustration incorporating details, such as a table-top hockey game, a Spock lunch-box, a floor model television with legs and other dated household furnishings to set the story firmly in the 70's. The strong blues and whites of the Maple Leaf team colours are repeated in Michael's winter jacket and reinforced in the winter scenes of deep blue sky and white snow. Thompson has extended the maple leaf motif by depicting them frozen in the outdoor rink and flying high in the Canadian flag. The design consists mostly of a page of text opposite a full-page picture, although there are a couple of double-page spreads. The centering of the text lines creates unusual-looking paragraphs, and some words are emphasized in a large coloured font that places capitals in odd places. This approach has the effect of enlivening the otherwise static format of the book.

      This book is proudly Canadian, from the subject matter to the visual references to Toronto, Canada's flag, Lawren Harris, William Kurelek and Niagara Falls. Although the story, itself, is slight, Michael's enthusiasm is infectious, and new fans of the sport will share his awe at Sittler's accomplishment in a single game.

Recommended.