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Power Play
“You’ re going to spend some time on the power play, on penalty kill, and start right off as the second line centre,” he told me.
I didn’ t question why he was putting me on the second line. I’ d show him the first line was the place I belonged.
“The important thing is that you’ ve been drafted,” he said. “You’ ve going to play Junior A, and you’ re going to be on my team. You’ re my player.”
This gripping new novel by bestselling children’s/YA author Eric Walters explores the complex and disturbing relationship between a talented young hockey star and his predatory coach as it descends into sexual abuse. In one of his most moving and provocative stories to date, Walters combines a vivid portrayal of rink culture with a powerful and unflinching
cautionary tale.
I didn’ t question why he was putting me on the second line. I’ d show him the first line was the place I belonged.
“The important thing is that you’ ve been drafted,” he said. “You’ ve going to play Junior A, and you’ re going to be on my team. You’ re my player.”
This gripping new novel by bestselling children’s/YA author Eric Walters explores the complex and disturbing relationship between a talented young hockey star and his predatory coach as it descends into sexual abuse. In one of his most moving and provocative stories to date, Walters combines a vivid portrayal of rink culture with a powerful and unflinching
cautionary tale.
224 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 14, 2013
8 people are currently reading
291 people want to read
About the author
Eric Walters
156 books908 followersEric was born in Toronto in 1957, which makes him "real old". But, as Eric says, "Just because I have to grow old doesn't mean that I have to grow up!" In his many roles as parent, teacher, social worker, youth sports coach and writer he is in constant contact with children and young adults. He draws from these experiences and feels that this helps him to capture the realistic interaction between young people—the conflicts, tensions, stresses and interests that make up their lives.
Eric began his writing as a teacher. He taught in classes from kindergarten up and his stories often reflect the curriculum that he was teaching. He always read stories—picture books and novels—to his students and this helped him to understand what children liked, responded to, and were inspired by. He enjoys the enthusiasm of his students and often looks at them to provide him with the inspiration to pursue a particular topic in both the classroom and in his writing.
Eric tries to write every day. When he has a story idea he starts with research. This could involve reading books, watching a documentary, or trying to experience the things that his characters are going to go through. This could include rock climbing or riding white water (for Stars), spending time in a wheelchair (Rebound), playing and walking with tigers (Tiger by the Tail), hanging around a tough biker bar (Diamonds in the Rough), standing out in his backyard in a blizzard wearing a T-shirt and shorts (Trapped in Ice), or traveling to Africa (Alexandria of Africa).
"The most important thing anybody ever told me about writing was to write what you know . . . and the only way to get to know things is to do your homework and research before you write," Eric stated.
Once the writing begins the story is always playing around in his head. He takes any opportunity, even if it's just a few minutes between presentations, to put things down, either with pen and paper or on his laptop.
Prior to entering teaching and writing Eric was a social worker (B.S.W., M.S.W., B.A.Hons—specialized major psychology). He worked in a variety of settings including child welfare, private practice, a mental health centre, and, for twenty years on a part-time basis as a Crisis Social Worker in an emergency department. He stopped teaching 4 years ago and left the ER only last year.
The majority of Eric's time is spent in the company of his wife, children and dogs (Lola a big standard poodle and a little white dog named Winnie the Poodle).
Eric began his writing as a teacher. He taught in classes from kindergarten up and his stories often reflect the curriculum that he was teaching. He always read stories—picture books and novels—to his students and this helped him to understand what children liked, responded to, and were inspired by. He enjoys the enthusiasm of his students and often looks at them to provide him with the inspiration to pursue a particular topic in both the classroom and in his writing.
Eric tries to write every day. When he has a story idea he starts with research. This could involve reading books, watching a documentary, or trying to experience the things that his characters are going to go through. This could include rock climbing or riding white water (for Stars), spending time in a wheelchair (Rebound), playing and walking with tigers (Tiger by the Tail), hanging around a tough biker bar (Diamonds in the Rough), standing out in his backyard in a blizzard wearing a T-shirt and shorts (Trapped in Ice), or traveling to Africa (Alexandria of Africa).
"The most important thing anybody ever told me about writing was to write what you know . . . and the only way to get to know things is to do your homework and research before you write," Eric stated.
Once the writing begins the story is always playing around in his head. He takes any opportunity, even if it's just a few minutes between presentations, to put things down, either with pen and paper or on his laptop.
Prior to entering teaching and writing Eric was a social worker (B.S.W., M.S.W., B.A.Hons—specialized major psychology). He worked in a variety of settings including child welfare, private practice, a mental health centre, and, for twenty years on a part-time basis as a Crisis Social Worker in an emergency department. He stopped teaching 4 years ago and left the ER only last year.
The majority of Eric's time is spent in the company of his wife, children and dogs (Lola a big standard poodle and a little white dog named Winnie the Poodle).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
August 26, 2018
A very well written book that deals with hockey as well as forms of abuse.
It was not an easy book to read as it covers some very unsavoury topics. It is well written and I do think that it is done in a way that isn't too overpowering as part of the story.
It was not an easy book to read as it covers some very unsavoury topics. It is well written and I do think that it is done in a way that isn't too overpowering as part of the story.
November 9, 2012
This was an amazing book. I've gotten used to Eric Walters and his books over the years to the point where I haven't really been expecting something other than what he always delivers, a good book. But this, this was really something else. Written from the perspective of a soon-to-be 16 year old boy, this book deals with the very untalked about issue of sexual abuse from coaches.
Cody is an amazing hockey player, he lives and breathes the game and tries his hardest on the ice at all times in the hope of making it to the Show - the NHL. School doesn't work out so well for him, he has anger and impulse issues, and home sweet home isn't as sweet as it should be with a loud, alcoholic father.
Lucky for Cody, his hard work pays off when he is scouted and given a scholarship to go to a training camp with the chances of being called up to Junior A becoming a real possibility. But as he's pulled into this world of privilege and potential, he finds himself trapped in an unreal situation with no idea how he can possibly get out.
With the exception of two books (and neither really count quite in the same way as this - though I just remembered Nicholas Dane, which is quite amazing as well), I haven't come across a book written for teens, and specifically targeted toward guys, that covers this material. Obviously, there are a number of books out there dealing with sexual abuse, but most talk about girls being abused, not guys. For that reason, in addition to the fact that it was so well written, this is an important book.
As for the writing, this is a quick and easy read - almost like a HiLo that I think will be easily approachable by reluctant readers. There is very little graphic content, making this a safe read. That said, it still puts you in Cody's mind and portrays the feelings and conflict that a victim goes through very clearly.
Again, a really great book!
Cody is an amazing hockey player, he lives and breathes the game and tries his hardest on the ice at all times in the hope of making it to the Show - the NHL. School doesn't work out so well for him, he has anger and impulse issues, and home sweet home isn't as sweet as it should be with a loud, alcoholic father.
Lucky for Cody, his hard work pays off when he is scouted and given a scholarship to go to a training camp with the chances of being called up to Junior A becoming a real possibility. But as he's pulled into this world of privilege and potential, he finds himself trapped in an unreal situation with no idea how he can possibly get out.
With the exception of two books (and neither really count quite in the same way as this - though I just remembered Nicholas Dane, which is quite amazing as well), I haven't come across a book written for teens, and specifically targeted toward guys, that covers this material. Obviously, there are a number of books out there dealing with sexual abuse, but most talk about girls being abused, not guys. For that reason, in addition to the fact that it was so well written, this is an important book.
As for the writing, this is a quick and easy read - almost like a HiLo that I think will be easily approachable by reluctant readers. There is very little graphic content, making this a safe read. That said, it still puts you in Cody's mind and portrays the feelings and conflict that a victim goes through very clearly.
Again, a really great book!
August 2, 2021
Have you ever had a book make you angry to the point where you want to scream and toss it across the room? Or maybe that made you almost physically ill? Not because it was a bad book, but because it deals with heavy, uncomfortable themes that are potentially triggering?
That’s me with Eric Walters 2013 book, “Power Play.”
“Power Play” follows a tough-as-nails 15-year-old hockey player named Cody, whose dream is to make it to the NHL, and when he’s drafted into the Junior A league by the coach he views as a mentor figure, it seems like everything he has worked for and wanted his entire life is within his grasp. But beneath the charismatic demeanour, Cody’s coach hides a sinister secret, and when he abuses the trust of the player-coach relationship, Cody is gripped by confusion, shame, and fear. He knows what happened to him was wrong, but who would even believe him?
“Power Play” is a book about abuse of power, loss of innocence, and the paralyzing fear that results from that. It is one of the heaviest, most difficult books I’ve ever read in terms of the subject matter and it can be potentially triggering so reader discretion is strongly advised but at the same time, Eric Walters treats the subject with the nuance and sensitivity it deserves.
It’s one of his most polarizing, but best and most important stories, and it stands as my personal favourite of his books that I’ve read to this point.
That’s me with Eric Walters 2013 book, “Power Play.”
“Power Play” follows a tough-as-nails 15-year-old hockey player named Cody, whose dream is to make it to the NHL, and when he’s drafted into the Junior A league by the coach he views as a mentor figure, it seems like everything he has worked for and wanted his entire life is within his grasp. But beneath the charismatic demeanour, Cody’s coach hides a sinister secret, and when he abuses the trust of the player-coach relationship, Cody is gripped by confusion, shame, and fear. He knows what happened to him was wrong, but who would even believe him?
“Power Play” is a book about abuse of power, loss of innocence, and the paralyzing fear that results from that. It is one of the heaviest, most difficult books I’ve ever read in terms of the subject matter and it can be potentially triggering so reader discretion is strongly advised but at the same time, Eric Walters treats the subject with the nuance and sensitivity it deserves.
It’s one of his most polarizing, but best and most important stories, and it stands as my personal favourite of his books that I’ve read to this point.
February 11, 2013
Great read....deals with current issue in junior hockey....disturbing subject but marvelously and tenderly written...
January 26, 2016
Quick read with simple writing but important and powerful content. Trigger warnings for abuse, suicide, and alcohol consumption.
January 28, 2019
I read this book as a potential book club read for my juniors. Hockey is king around here and many of my students will be drawn in by both the subject matter and the easily accessible language. This is an easy to read book that is high interest. It deals with the abuse that occurs in a respectful manner, but it is still very hard to read this kind of troubling experience, especially as the adults continue to manipulate situations for their own gain at the cost of Cody's well-being. My students will enjoy this, but having follow-up conversations will be important. I will bring this into a grade 10 class this year to see what they have to say, but the quality of the writing would be easily accessible for a much younger reader, but I don't know if the content should be offered below grade 8.
November 16, 2023
Good story, good themes, abysmally terrible writing. I don’t know if I got an incomplete copy of the book or what, but it was too short, each chapter would skip what felt like really important parts of the story. The story ran by too damn fast. This feels more like a quick draft than a finished product. And the thing is the finished product would have kicked ass. I really liked the story and if it hadn’t been so unbelievably rushed it really could have packed a punch. And don’t even get me started on the ending, there mas no climax, it just skipped straight to the credits, it felt like reading this had no pay-off.
January 29, 2021
It was a really good book and I'd probably find myself re-reading it some day. The character development was good, I got enough emotions from them but it was lacking a bit. I feel like friendships could've been expanded on as well as Cody's relationship with Terry. Also the ending was very rushed.
All in all this book would've been 5 stars without a doubt if the author made the book longer or maybe have been a series. The author did a great job with the storytelling, I definitely would read more of his books
All in all this book would've been 5 stars without a doubt if the author made the book longer or maybe have been a series. The author did a great job with the storytelling, I definitely would read more of his books
May 5, 2017
I just finished this book, and I am utterly shocked. I am crying way more than I thought I'd be, which is a surprise. I picked up this book as a break from the bigger books of specific genres I usually read, and I'm very glad. This is not something you'd normally see me read, yet I highly recommend it because it tells a story so important for everyone to hear.
This book is incredibly gripping. Especially after reading the afterword and realizing it is a true story that affects so many people on the daily.
I am impressed, and already reading another Eric Walters book.
The rating of three stars is due to the writing, which was cliché, or all around wonky and bad at times. I highly appreciated the storytelling itself, but it was just a tad slow in the beginning, and quite repetitive when it came to character descriptions.
This book is incredibly gripping. Especially after reading the afterword and realizing it is a true story that affects so many people on the daily.
I am impressed, and already reading another Eric Walters book.
The rating of three stars is due to the writing, which was cliché, or all around wonky and bad at times. I highly appreciated the storytelling itself, but it was just a tad slow in the beginning, and quite repetitive when it came to character descriptions.
May 9, 2018
Cody, a talented hockey player, is scouted by a predatory coach. Walters shows the reader the tactics of a pedophile and the trauma the victim experience. Sheldon Kennedy writes strong advice in the afterword. This book is a tough read, but one that every parent, coach, manager, teacher and player should read.
July 16, 2022
this book moved me. I went into it thinking it was gonna be a boring old hockey book for middle school boys with toxic masculinity.
It was the opposite.
This book addressed important and ‘taboo’ topics while also being extremely well written and balancing a good pace of story telling.
Although the story was ‘dark’ it was so addicting and impossible to put down.
10/10 i recommend
It was the opposite.
This book addressed important and ‘taboo’ topics while also being extremely well written and balancing a good pace of story telling.
Although the story was ‘dark’ it was so addicting and impossible to put down.
10/10 i recommend
February 13, 2024
I read this because my 12 year old read it at school and told me about it. Its claim is a YA novel, but I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone under 16. Many mature themes, such as addiction, underage drinking, suicide and rape.
The dark side of hockey is unleashed in this well written story about SA between coach and player.
The dark side of hockey is unleashed in this well written story about SA between coach and player.
September 11, 2021
It was, at times, a tough read, but well written. As Sheldon Kennedy said, it’s an important book. Even if one of the topic, sexual abuse, is hard to read about. Once again, Eric Walters did an amazing job!
February 6, 2022
Power Play is a powerful book. I was disgusted, frightened in turns. Parents should read this book, share it with their kids when appropriate, and be open to talking afterwards. Thank you, Eric Walters for writing this story.
March 4, 2018
I saw this book for cheap on Book Outlet and since I love hockey I figured why not? I didn’t realize how much I would love this book. it is such a powerful and important read. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: I think everyone needs to read this book even if you aren’t a sports fan. This book deals with sexual assault along with molestation.
In this book the main character, Cody, is a serious hockey player with problems at home. He has a dad that drinks too much and gets angry way too fast. If I’m honest that seems to be a reoccurring theme in hockey books I read. Anyway, he has a very loving mother, but Cody is still troubled. He doesn’t try hard in school and when he’s on the ice he doesn’t mind being aggressive to show he isn’t weak. He’s one of the best players on the ice so it isn’t a surprise when a scout decides he wants to help him. However, that’s not all the scout wants.
This scout also wants to become a coach and most of the kids call him Coach when he chooses a select few to be on his team. One of them being Cody who couldn’t be more excited since he’s just a step under going pro in the NHL. He finds out really quickly that it isn’t all fun and games. Cody ends up being molested by Coach, a guy he was supposed to be able to trust. Cody seemed a little iffy about some things Coach does, but brushes it off as nothing. For example his coach encouraging him to drink beer when he’s under age and to miss curfew by talking with him. This gets Cody in trouble but Coach comes to his rescue and in Coach’s eyes that means Cody owes him.
As the book progresses Coach ends up molesting Cody. Cody isn’t living with his parents at the time because he is off pursuing his career of hockey so he is staying with a different family. Therefore, Cody feels more alone than ever. He has no idea what to do because no one will believe him if he speaks up and Coach has everything set up to make his life a living Hell if he does say a word. Coach has a folder full of lies about Cody and he says that if Cody says anything then he’ll release it making it impossible for Cody to ever become pro or to ever play for another team for that matter. Cody is bullied into doing what Coach wants because he feels he has no other choice but to give him what he asks for and in return he will someday be pro. Cody fears telling his parents because he doesn’t know how his dad will react and he doesn’t want to make his mom worry. Cody decides to just deal with it because he gets something in return.
Cody soon decides it isn’t worth it anymore; dealing with his coach sexually assaulting him. he tries to make a deal with his coach saying he won’t say a word, he just asks that his coach stops what he’s doing. The coach doesn’t take this very lightly and makes sure that Cody knows that he is the reason Cody is doing so well and will be successful and Cody will continue to do whatever Coach wants and that if Cody ever tells anyone Coach isn’t afraid to kill him. Cody is too afraid to try anything so he complies.
He had me trapped even more completely than I’d believed possible. What he was doing was evil and awful and, in a twisted way, brilliant. But what else did I expect from Coach> He was the smartest person I’d ever met.
As the story goes on Cody continues to feel trapped and begins to think of suicide. Although he knows he can never do it he can’t seem to shake the thoughts that come to him. Anyway, Cody ends up getting caught hung over in school and he get’s called into the principal’s office. However, he’s not the only one in the principal’s office, Terry is there, the owner of the team. Cody can’t keep quiet any longer and he tells Terry everything. Cody get’s the help he needs and Coach is put in jail.
This book was just amazing and so important in my opinion. I feel like sexual assault occurring to guys isn’t talked about enough and this book helps shine some light on the subject. I thing everyone should give this book a read because it’s important that it’s talked about and not just forgotten. It’s important that those who have been sexually assaulted speak up about it and don’t keep quiet because by speaking up they aren’t only helping themselves they’re helping all of those who have also gone though the same thing.
This book also had an Afterword by Sheldon Kennedy and I just found that amazing. He is a former hockey player who experienced sexual assault from his coach and he even wrote his own book, which I plan on buying. It’s important to see people speak up no matter how old or young they are.
This book was pretty dark, but in the end it shined some light on how serious sexual assault is even for guys. I really enjoyed this book. I liked the writing and the story and the character. Cody had a troubled life and it made it easy for me to feel for him and just want to earn more about him and see how his life turned out and how he took control. My only problem with this book was that the ending seemed a little rushed, but overall it was really good. I recommend this book to everyone!
Thanks for reading my review, I hope y’all enjoyed it!
In this book the main character, Cody, is a serious hockey player with problems at home. He has a dad that drinks too much and gets angry way too fast. If I’m honest that seems to be a reoccurring theme in hockey books I read. Anyway, he has a very loving mother, but Cody is still troubled. He doesn’t try hard in school and when he’s on the ice he doesn’t mind being aggressive to show he isn’t weak. He’s one of the best players on the ice so it isn’t a surprise when a scout decides he wants to help him. However, that’s not all the scout wants.
This scout also wants to become a coach and most of the kids call him Coach when he chooses a select few to be on his team. One of them being Cody who couldn’t be more excited since he’s just a step under going pro in the NHL. He finds out really quickly that it isn’t all fun and games. Cody ends up being molested by Coach, a guy he was supposed to be able to trust. Cody seemed a little iffy about some things Coach does, but brushes it off as nothing. For example his coach encouraging him to drink beer when he’s under age and to miss curfew by talking with him. This gets Cody in trouble but Coach comes to his rescue and in Coach’s eyes that means Cody owes him.
As the book progresses Coach ends up molesting Cody. Cody isn’t living with his parents at the time because he is off pursuing his career of hockey so he is staying with a different family. Therefore, Cody feels more alone than ever. He has no idea what to do because no one will believe him if he speaks up and Coach has everything set up to make his life a living Hell if he does say a word. Coach has a folder full of lies about Cody and he says that if Cody says anything then he’ll release it making it impossible for Cody to ever become pro or to ever play for another team for that matter. Cody is bullied into doing what Coach wants because he feels he has no other choice but to give him what he asks for and in return he will someday be pro. Cody fears telling his parents because he doesn’t know how his dad will react and he doesn’t want to make his mom worry. Cody decides to just deal with it because he gets something in return.
Cody soon decides it isn’t worth it anymore; dealing with his coach sexually assaulting him. he tries to make a deal with his coach saying he won’t say a word, he just asks that his coach stops what he’s doing. The coach doesn’t take this very lightly and makes sure that Cody knows that he is the reason Cody is doing so well and will be successful and Cody will continue to do whatever Coach wants and that if Cody ever tells anyone Coach isn’t afraid to kill him. Cody is too afraid to try anything so he complies.
He had me trapped even more completely than I’d believed possible. What he was doing was evil and awful and, in a twisted way, brilliant. But what else did I expect from Coach> He was the smartest person I’d ever met.
As the story goes on Cody continues to feel trapped and begins to think of suicide. Although he knows he can never do it he can’t seem to shake the thoughts that come to him. Anyway, Cody ends up getting caught hung over in school and he get’s called into the principal’s office. However, he’s not the only one in the principal’s office, Terry is there, the owner of the team. Cody can’t keep quiet any longer and he tells Terry everything. Cody get’s the help he needs and Coach is put in jail.
This book was just amazing and so important in my opinion. I feel like sexual assault occurring to guys isn’t talked about enough and this book helps shine some light on the subject. I thing everyone should give this book a read because it’s important that it’s talked about and not just forgotten. It’s important that those who have been sexually assaulted speak up about it and don’t keep quiet because by speaking up they aren’t only helping themselves they’re helping all of those who have also gone though the same thing.
This book also had an Afterword by Sheldon Kennedy and I just found that amazing. He is a former hockey player who experienced sexual assault from his coach and he even wrote his own book, which I plan on buying. It’s important to see people speak up no matter how old or young they are.
This book was pretty dark, but in the end it shined some light on how serious sexual assault is even for guys. I really enjoyed this book. I liked the writing and the story and the character. Cody had a troubled life and it made it easy for me to feel for him and just want to earn more about him and see how his life turned out and how he took control. My only problem with this book was that the ending seemed a little rushed, but overall it was really good. I recommend this book to everyone!
Thanks for reading my review, I hope y’all enjoyed it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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November 23, 2022josh beloved you are all the good in this world
November 27, 2025
Definitely the darkest book by Eric Walter’s I’ve read. 13 year old Willem was not prepared to read a book about sexual abuse, kinda hit me like a truck.
May 7, 2015
In the book power play a fiction novel by Eric Walters, Cody finds himself with quite a big obstacle in his hockey career. At the age of 16 he is only just beginning his pro hockey with the junior A draft coming up and the determination of Cody, he will do whatever it takes to get drafted and that means some things he hates. With the help of Terry the owner of the team, Cody gets threw the hardest time of his life and makes sure no other player goes threw it again.
This is the type of book were you can put yourself in the shoes of Cody and being able to imagine how it would be in this situation . Eric Walters is an expert on this topic because he has worked with children in his past and he easily puts himself there in the characters shoes and makes the book relate to the reader in numerous ways.
The theme of this book is really between two hockey and sexual assault it’s a great mix between the two. The dream of making it to the NHL and the hard work and determination it is to make it, along with all the scary and realistic obstacles Eric Walters did a wonderful job at connecting the two into the same book
The whole book is first person view in the eyes of Cody the protagonist and the struggle between him and coach. The dialogue is normal people talking it isn’t too big and complicated of words but it isn’t the simplest words in the book as well. The book is all mostly the thoughts of Cody and dialogue between Cody and a different amount of other characters in the book, but the dialogue is really well placed in the book and ties everything together and makes even more entertaining for the reader.
Power Play has an effect on the reader that not all books have. Power Play is a fiction novel that seems real and you can read it and feel emotion even if you know it’s not real, but then again it is a very real topic that happens a lot and it brings the importance of the subject to the reader. This book has been one of the best I’ve read and I really suggest on reading it.
This is the type of book were you can put yourself in the shoes of Cody and being able to imagine how it would be in this situation . Eric Walters is an expert on this topic because he has worked with children in his past and he easily puts himself there in the characters shoes and makes the book relate to the reader in numerous ways.
The theme of this book is really between two hockey and sexual assault it’s a great mix between the two. The dream of making it to the NHL and the hard work and determination it is to make it, along with all the scary and realistic obstacles Eric Walters did a wonderful job at connecting the two into the same book
The whole book is first person view in the eyes of Cody the protagonist and the struggle between him and coach. The dialogue is normal people talking it isn’t too big and complicated of words but it isn’t the simplest words in the book as well. The book is all mostly the thoughts of Cody and dialogue between Cody and a different amount of other characters in the book, but the dialogue is really well placed in the book and ties everything together and makes even more entertaining for the reader.
Power Play has an effect on the reader that not all books have. Power Play is a fiction novel that seems real and you can read it and feel emotion even if you know it’s not real, but then again it is a very real topic that happens a lot and it brings the importance of the subject to the reader. This book has been one of the best I’ve read and I really suggest on reading it.
May 11, 2015
When I was first introduced to Eric Walters, Teen Fictional Novel Power Play I knew I wanted to read it. As a hockey fan it made me want to read Power Play even more. This novel is a gripping novel that grabs your attention and makes you want to continue reading it. Power Play deals with sexual abuse and alcohol abuse. The main character is Cody a young hockey player.
Power Play is told by the main characters perspective, Cody. Cody has a big dream to make it to the NHL, but before he do that he has to get drafted to Junior A, (League below NHL.) The two main characters are Cody and Coach Connors. It feels bad to be betrayed by someone but worse to be betrayed by someone you trusted.
Eric Walters did a great job on the book. By the end of the first chapter I knew that Cody had the potential to make it to the NHL. My favorite thing about the book is how well you know Cody and how he handles problems. I can relate to Cody in the way we both play, even know I’m not as good as him we have similar playing styles. What I didn’t like about Power Play is that it didn’t talk enough about hockey. I liked the start of the book a lot because it talked a lot about hockey. Cody changed from the start of the novel to the end he became more shy from keeping everything in for a long time. The ending surprised me a lot, I did not except coach to do what he did.
Overall Power Play was a good book; I would recommend it to all teenagers. I would recommend it because it deals with current issues in the world like alcohol abuse and sexual abuse. It is a quick read novel it doesn't take long to read. Power Play deserves a solid 7.5 out of 10, even know there was some points I didn't like it was a good book.
Power Play is told by the main characters perspective, Cody. Cody has a big dream to make it to the NHL, but before he do that he has to get drafted to Junior A, (League below NHL.) The two main characters are Cody and Coach Connors. It feels bad to be betrayed by someone but worse to be betrayed by someone you trusted.
Eric Walters did a great job on the book. By the end of the first chapter I knew that Cody had the potential to make it to the NHL. My favorite thing about the book is how well you know Cody and how he handles problems. I can relate to Cody in the way we both play, even know I’m not as good as him we have similar playing styles. What I didn’t like about Power Play is that it didn’t talk enough about hockey. I liked the start of the book a lot because it talked a lot about hockey. Cody changed from the start of the novel to the end he became more shy from keeping everything in for a long time. The ending surprised me a lot, I did not except coach to do what he did.
Overall Power Play was a good book; I would recommend it to all teenagers. I would recommend it because it deals with current issues in the world like alcohol abuse and sexual abuse. It is a quick read novel it doesn't take long to read. Power Play deserves a solid 7.5 out of 10, even know there was some points I didn't like it was a good book.
May 12, 2015
In the book Power Play by Eric Walters, Cody, a young hockey phenom has only one dream and that’s to make the NHL. He is determined to make it there and he is willing to do anything for it…that is within reason.
The fact that Eric used to be a teacher makes him an expert on this topic. He has been dealing with kids a lot so I think he knows what is going on inside they’re twisted minds. The book is all about a kid going through a tough time and I feel like he has dealt with a lot of stuff being a teacher.
The main theme in the book is sexual abuse. And how much power can control somebody. I think the other developed this theme in the book perfectly. It started out to just be another boring novel about hockey but then, out of nowhere came these crazy turn of events that made me want to keep reading.
The vocabulary in Power Play by Eric Walters is very complex. That is, if you know nothing about hockey. Eric uses a lot of hockey terminology. I did not like how Eric organized his chapters at all. It would be in such an intense moment in the book then out of nowhere the chapter ended and the next one started at a complete different location. The dialog in this book has a lot of slang like I said before. A lot of the conversations with Cody and his friends contain this complicated slang.
This book doesn’t have any pictures but it was so well said that I could easily make one up inside my head. This book made me feel like I was watching a movie inside my head.
I definitely recommend kids from the age of 13-18 to buy this amazing book. Especially if you’re a hockey player like me who hates reading, the hockey aspect of this book always made me want to keep reading.
The fact that Eric used to be a teacher makes him an expert on this topic. He has been dealing with kids a lot so I think he knows what is going on inside they’re twisted minds. The book is all about a kid going through a tough time and I feel like he has dealt with a lot of stuff being a teacher.
The main theme in the book is sexual abuse. And how much power can control somebody. I think the other developed this theme in the book perfectly. It started out to just be another boring novel about hockey but then, out of nowhere came these crazy turn of events that made me want to keep reading.
The vocabulary in Power Play by Eric Walters is very complex. That is, if you know nothing about hockey. Eric uses a lot of hockey terminology. I did not like how Eric organized his chapters at all. It would be in such an intense moment in the book then out of nowhere the chapter ended and the next one started at a complete different location. The dialog in this book has a lot of slang like I said before. A lot of the conversations with Cody and his friends contain this complicated slang.
This book doesn’t have any pictures but it was so well said that I could easily make one up inside my head. This book made me feel like I was watching a movie inside my head.
I definitely recommend kids from the age of 13-18 to buy this amazing book. Especially if you’re a hockey player like me who hates reading, the hockey aspect of this book always made me want to keep reading.
May 8, 2023
3,5
La storia mi è piaciuta tantissimo, purtroppo ho dovuto dare 3 stelle e mezzo per il finale. Mi sarebbe tanto piaciuto vedere il dopo di quando la situazione è uscita fuori, di come alcuni gli abbiano creduto, altri no, le conversazioni fatte, i suoi legami di amicizia e i suoi sentimenti nel frattempo. Sarebbe stata bella una scena di come il coach avrebbe potuto vincere il processo e poi viene il primo testimone a farsi avanti. Purtroppo viene scritto in un unico capitolo finale in maniera molto riassuntiva, ed è triste. Sì, mi dai un finale soddisfacente ma in maniera parziale. Il libro è breve, troppo concentrato su Cody, e sarebbe stato bello vedere più le cose attorno a lui: lui che stringe amicizia, che supera le conseguenze, inizia ad andare dallo psicologo, riprende le partite. Quella parte aspettavo impaziente e invece l’autore ha stroncato appena lui ha confessato tutto. Va bene, è una bella storia comunque, però…
La storia mi è piaciuta tantissimo, purtroppo ho dovuto dare 3 stelle e mezzo per il finale. Mi sarebbe tanto piaciuto vedere il dopo di quando la situazione è uscita fuori, di come alcuni gli abbiano creduto, altri no, le conversazioni fatte, i suoi legami di amicizia e i suoi sentimenti nel frattempo. Sarebbe stata bella una scena di come il coach avrebbe potuto vincere il processo e poi viene il primo testimone a farsi avanti. Purtroppo viene scritto in un unico capitolo finale in maniera molto riassuntiva, ed è triste. Sì, mi dai un finale soddisfacente ma in maniera parziale. Il libro è breve, troppo concentrato su Cody, e sarebbe stato bello vedere più le cose attorno a lui: lui che stringe amicizia, che supera le conseguenze, inizia ad andare dallo psicologo, riprende le partite. Quella parte aspettavo impaziente e invece l’autore ha stroncato appena lui ha confessato tutto. Va bene, è una bella storia comunque, però…
March 13, 2013
Power Play is a powerful story about a boy with a passion for playing hockey and a coach who takes advantage of a player's dream to play in the Junior A and eventually the NHL. I haven't read many books by Eric Walters (this is my second one), but I can say without a doubt that I'm now definitely a fan of his writing. The voice of his characters is spot on, and he clearly understands what a teen in Cody's position would feel like. As a Canadian, I think this story is even more important because of how popular hockey is and how much players dream about taking their love of the game to the next level, though clearly, this type of abusive power dynamic could happen in any coach-player dynamic. Very important, must read book.
February 18, 2013
Eric Walters handles a very sensitive subject incredibly well in this book. It is definately a YA book... all the way. I was amazed at the "power" and control that the coach has over the player and the way the coach "preyed" upon his victim. Everything was well planned and calcutated, nothing spontaneous. It really reminds me how we have to really observe and understand what is going on around us. The young athlete's desire and passion for the game became a weapon the coach used against him. So sad.
March 25, 2013
This book was really intense. It really showed how this things can happen in the world of sports. Most people don't have the guts to say anything so they don't.
Cody had the courage to tell coach terry that coach Conners had abused him. He thought that terry wouldn't believe him and his career would be ruined. Terry did believe him though and Conners had admitted guilty after several other players confessed to them being blackmailed to do that sort if thing to get into the NHL.
Cody had the courage to tell coach terry that coach Conners had abused him. He thought that terry wouldn't believe him and his career would be ruined. Terry did believe him though and Conners had admitted guilty after several other players confessed to them being blackmailed to do that sort if thing to get into the NHL.
October 11, 2015
I am very glad this book was written. It made me uncomfortable but I'm glad I read it. Sadly this does happen and it is hard to tell people. When something bad happens its hard to know who to trust. Thank you Eric Walters for writing about subjects that make us squirm because the world needs to know so it can happen less and be stopped.
This is a book about a young hockey player with a not so happy family background.
This is a book about a young hockey player with a not so happy family background.
March 4, 2013
This gripping new novel explores the complex and disturbing relationship between a talented young hockey star and his predatory coach. It is a powerful story, and inspired Play Fair, Be Aware, a campaign that encourages the creation of safe sport environments.
February 12, 2017
I found it a little slow at the beginning, and I'm not much into sports books but I'm a big fan of Eric Walters so I had hopes. I wasn't disappointed! The book took an interesting turn.. A shocking turn really. All in all I'd recommend it to anyone. (Act. Rating: 4.5 stars)
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March 3, 2013I've got to think some more on this one - some good things here but usual problem with how to end a book - a flaw that Walters has over and over again
March 28, 2013
Disturbing since I know this book is fact based.
May 8, 2013
A little slow moving at some parts but still a great book, even for non-hockey fans
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