Devoted Canadian readers of hockey lore will immediately begin making comparisons between this book and another similar one for young readers, Roch Carrier’s classic, The Hockey Sweater. And the comparison is a fitting one.

First-time children’s authors (and hockey-mad brothers-in-law) Jack Siemiatycki of Toronto and Avi Slodovnick of Montreal have written a lively, straightforward, fast-paced story that’s part nostalgia and romance for the golden age of the sport, and part paean to one of its greatest players. Presented as a warm story told by an uncle to his nephew, it’s all complemented beautifully by veteran Quebec artist Doris Barrette’s retro-style illustrations.

The hockey card in question is a vintage one of Maurice (The Rocket) Richard, “the greatest hockey player that ever lived.” Using this small cardboard rectangle as their starting point, Siemiatycki and Slodovnick weave a suspenseful tale that begins in the pre-1968 era of pro hockey, when there were only six teams, and ends with a nifty twist in the present. Illustrator Barrette captures both eras brilliantly. Especially notable are her renderings of the old-style NHL players that dot the narrative.

Clearly, The Hockey Card will appeal most to young readers with an interest in the Great Canadian Pastime, or at least those with a sporting bent. But the authors and illustrator have collaborated to produce a story that’s warm and compelling enough to be enjoyed by any young reader who simply likes a good yarn.