For the Love of Field Hockey. (For the Love of Sports). Jennifer Hurtig. Calgary, AB: Weigl (Distributed by Saunders Book Company), 2007.   24 pp., cloth, $22.95. ISBN 1-59036-400-7. Subject Heading: Field hockey-Juvenile literature. Grades 2-4 / Ages 7-9. Review by Harriet Zaidman. **** /4
	For the Love of Curling. (For the Love of Sports). Annalise Bekkering. Calgary, AB: Weigl (Distributed by Saunders Book Company), 2007.   24 pp., cloth, $22.95. ISBN 1-59036-402-3. Subject Heading: Curling-History. Grades 2-4 / Ages 7-9. Review by Harriet Zaidman. **** /4

excerpt:

Field hockey is an ancient team sport. It dates back more than 4,000 years. In a tomb in Egypt, scientists have found very old drawings of men playing field hockey. There is also evidence of other ancient peoples, including American Indians, playing this game long ago. In the past, it was played only by men. Today it is played by makes and females of all ages (From For the Love of Field Hockey).

Children want to understand the mechanics and demands of sporting activities as they try to imagine what they, themselves, might possibly accomplish. Sporting books are always popular, especially those with bright pictures and carefully-drawn diagrams. The awareness created by the televising of mega-events such as the Olympics and championship curling encourages even more interest.

     For the Love of Field Hockey and For the Love of Curling discuss the history, rules and personalities of two sports that are accessible to most people, although curling is more expensive because of the cost to rent ice time. Nevertheless, both sports are excellent group activities that contribute toward developing a positive social outlook and a healthy lifestyle.

     These books will satisfy children's curiosity about curling and field  hockey. They will be able to apply the skills from the carefully-explained instructions. Pictures are captioned with appropriate information.

When a player throws a rock down the ice, two sweepers from his or her team slide down the ice. They sweep ahead of the rock to speed it up and keep it sliding in a straight line. When a rock slows down, it begins to curl. Sweepers are not allowed to touch the rock (From For the Love of Curling).

When players lift the curled edge of their sticks above their shoulders, hit the ball with their hands, or use their body to stop the ball, a foul is called. Stick interference is also a foul. When a foul occurs within the striking circle, the umpire awards the opposite team a penalty corner or penalty stroke (From For the Love of Field Hockey).

     The books include information about important people through the modern history of each sport, dating back through the 20th century. The orientation of the books is toward the American market, but the contribution of Canadians and sportsmen of other countries is included.

     The books are 24 pages in length, containing 10 two-page chapters. Children who want to train for either of these sports will find advice on how to stay healthy and develop their fitness levels. The final chapter has an unnecessary question and answer section. The last page in the book has a glossary where bolded words are defined plus an index.

     This series will provide children with useful information. The layout and illustrations will encourage them to try these sports when they have an opportunity, usually in middle or high school.

Highly Recommended.

Harriet Zaidman is a teacher-librarian in Winnipeg, MB.

To comment on this title or this review, send mail to cm@umanitoba.ca.

Copyright © the Manitoba Library Association. Reproduction for personal use is permitted only if this copyright notice is maintained. Any other reproduction is prohibited without permission.

Published by The Manitoba Library Association ISSN 1201-9364

Hosted by the University of Manitoba.

 

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