The Girl Who Wore Boys Skates

by K.A. Dann

"She wasn’t like the other girls her age who stood awkwardly clinging to the boards, she was a strong skater. She wore a pair of black speed skates, her long powerful legs gliding her gracefully around the corners; her eyes, brimming with tears from the crisp winter air, sparkled as she picked up speed on the straight stretches."Known as the Greatest Generation, their childhood was lived through the depression years and they came of age for the Second World War. Personal responsibility, humility, work ethic, commitment and self-sacrifice were the characteristics that defined them.This is their story...set in the Calgary that they grew up in.

302 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 11, 2021

Reviews

[Taveri · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was quite readible/enjoyable about > about what? I'm not sure it had a plot. It was set in Calgary up to and during WWII. Having been born, gone to school in Calgary and lived here a lot of years I appreciated the background and research into the hstory revealed of places (e.g. Palliser Hotel), people (e.g. Nellie Mclung) and events (e.g. Calgary Stampede). It seemed the author must have been there at the time yet she was even born when the when the story took place. I'm not sure non-Calgarians would enjoy it as much. Each chapter was like a vignette of the time. I couldn't keep track of the characters. It would have helped immensely if the Dedication had been at the beginning of the book rather than at the end.

[Kathy Dann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is what people are saying about this book

I have to say it is nothing short of exquisite. Such a beautiful story and the author really nailed the age and the culture. I loved the construction of the book as well, the anecdotal pieces, and how gradually it all comes together like a tapestry. Just beautiful…


The author weaves a moving family history with stories of life and events in early Calgary. I loved the characters…so generous and true. It’s a poignant story of love and compassion and a real tribute to the WWII generation. I think you’ll love it!