The Mighty Tim Horton

by Mike Leonetti, Greg Banning (Illustrator)

A young boy improves his hockey game with a little help from his idol, Tim Horton. Trevor is a defenseman who loves to use his size in his game ― sometimes a little too much. He's taking needless penalties, costing his team the wins they need to advance. He hates letting them down, but he doesn't know how to change his game. As the Leafs head for the Cup in the 1961-62 season, he follows the plays of his hockey hero ― Tim Horton ― for inspiration. Horton is a big defenseman too, but he uses his size wisely. One day, through a lucky coincidence, Trevor comes face to face with Tim Horton, and finds the nerve to ask him for some tips. Now, armed with some sound advice, he returns to his hockey team determined to rein in his temper and play a better game. And what a game it is! Trevor helps his team on to victory just as the Leafs hoist their newly won Stanley Cup ― with a winning goal assisted by none other than Tim Horton!

32 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2010

Reviews

[Dawn]

This is a lovely departure from the many statistic or biography based books on sports players. Even children who do not enjoy hockey will like this story.

It is about a little boy named Trevor who loves to play hockey, but due to his rough habits he is spending most of his time on the bench. He meets Tim Horton the famous hockey player who gives him several tips to help him become a better player and that fighting doesn’t help his team at all. When Trevor puts these tips into action his play improves and he gets a lot more ice time.

The art work is charming and quite realistic. The large pictures make this a perfect read aloud for a group of children. The focus on being a fair and respectful player is a message that can be applied to all sports and activities.

There is an afterword with information about Tim Horton. This covers details from his hockey career as well as his business ventures.

Teacher Application

This book would be perfect for a die-hard hockey fan, but it’s also excellent for a lesson on sportsmanship and respect on a playing field. It is about a boy learning that being the best player you can be means avoiding penalties and rough play.

The idea that ones actions affect the whole team comes through quite strongly. When Trevor is rough and gets penalties he lets the team down and he is benched. When he plays in a respectful way he gets much more ice time and is named a tournament “all-star" on defense.

Character Traits Taught
Fair Play
Respect
Responsibility to team

[Tami]

When most people hear the name Tim Horton, they probably think of donuts and coffee. That is unless you are a Leaf’s fan (or have a father or grandfather who is one). Then, without a doubt, you know about the contributions that Horton made to team back in the sixties.

The Mighty Tim Horton looks to teach a whole new generation about Tim Horton and the way he played the game. It’s a timeless story really, set in 1962. Trevor is kind of a rough player. He’s in the penalty box so much that his coach tells him that he has to change his attitude. Trevor tries to immolate his favourite player, Tim Horton. Then, he even has the great luck to meet the man and get a few tips. Trevor not only changes his game in a big way but he’s there to watch the Toronto Maple Leafs win the Stanley Cup.

[Teebz Hbic]

Review for The Mighty Tim Horton can be found on Hockey Blog In Canada.