Elliot Jelly-Legs and the Bobblehead Miracle

Elliot loves hockey: the game, the atmosphere, the camaraderie and sharing his love of the sport with his grandad. However, despite his enthusiasm, his weak skating skills earn him the nickname of Jelly-legs. When Hunter, team goalie, is injured, Elliot volunteers for the position, hoping it will involve less skating and be more suited to his abilities. His first game is an embarrassing disaster. Desperate for success, he turns to his Carey Price bobblehead action-figure, pleading for a win. And suddenly it’s magic! Each time he invokes assistance from the bobblehead, the team does well! Now, fear of failure is replaced with fear his teammates will discover his credulity. And worse, his dependence on ‘magic’ blinds him to the real impact of his hard work and determination.

As narrator, 11-year-old Elliott paints an honest and realistic picture of himself, one complete with frailties and strengths. He is a character to whom readers will respond, respecting his resilience and determination. He never gives up on his love of the game despite his imperfect skills and lack of encouragement from his busy mother and his father who considers the sport an expensive indulgence.

The story, fast-paced and absorbing, contains entertaining depictions of the games and convincing relationships between team members. There are no archvillains or extreme heroes, but tensions are candidly described, including those between Elliot and his best friend Duncan as well as his antipathy toward Hunter who taunts him over his superstitions and perceived inabilities.

The conclusion is realistically hopeful as Elliot gradually recognizes his contributions to the team without the support of superstition. He begins to feel accepted both by the team and his family as his commitment to the game is recognized. Adding to the book’s readability are interspersed illustrations of hockey cards picturing the players mentioned.

Interweaving a hockey story with pre-teen angst and real life-struggles, Elliot Jelly-Legs and the Bobblehead Miracle is a well-written light read with good characterization and a message about trying your best in the face of difficulty.