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Home and Away
In one of the last great remaining untold stories in all of sports, the Hall of Fame Toronto Maple Leafs captain Mats Sundin shares for the first time an unfiltered look at playing hockey in Sweden and across North America as part of the sport’s most fabled franchises.
Growing up in Sollentuna, Sweden, on the outskirts of Stockholm, Mats Sundin skated on the lake downhill from his house, a house his father had built with his own hands, on land his mother insisted on buying for their future. In the darkness of the Scandinavian winter Sundin would chase after his older brother on that lake for countless hours. Summers spent in nature with his grandparents instilled a lifelong love for the outdoors. Playing hockey in their driveway, the three Sundin brothers imagined scenes of suiting up for Sweden’s national team and scoring a game winning goal against their favoured rival, the Soviet Union. It wasn’t until his late teens that he caught the eyes of scouts and coaches from the other side of the Atlantic. At the 1989 NHL draft, eighteen-year-old Sundin was as surprised as anyone when he was selected first overall by the Quebec Nordiques.
After a few years as a Nordique, Sundin was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in exchange for the highly popular Leaf captain, Wendel Clark. In his early years in Toronto, he felt both at home and from away, working extra hard to gain acceptance in the world’s toughest hockey market. Even once he was named captain, Sundin didn’t deviate from his quiet nature but instead lead by example, never asking anyone to work harder than he did. Over thirteen seasons with the team, he would learn just how fiery the cauldron of Leafs Nation could be.
In Home and Away, Mats Sundin writes openly for the first time about what it was like for him to uproot his life in Sweden to embark on a long hockey career an ocean away. Home and Away is an elegiac, heartfelt, and honest story of a man who followed his passions, cherished his family, faced heavy scrutiny, and ultimately earned his way into both the hearts of fans and the hockey record books. His journey transcends the rink and shows what it means to be a quiet and unpretentious Swedish kid who went on to become one of the most accomplished players in the history of the game.
Growing up in Sollentuna, Sweden, on the outskirts of Stockholm, Mats Sundin skated on the lake downhill from his house, a house his father had built with his own hands, on land his mother insisted on buying for their future. In the darkness of the Scandinavian winter Sundin would chase after his older brother on that lake for countless hours. Summers spent in nature with his grandparents instilled a lifelong love for the outdoors. Playing hockey in their driveway, the three Sundin brothers imagined scenes of suiting up for Sweden’s national team and scoring a game winning goal against their favoured rival, the Soviet Union. It wasn’t until his late teens that he caught the eyes of scouts and coaches from the other side of the Atlantic. At the 1989 NHL draft, eighteen-year-old Sundin was as surprised as anyone when he was selected first overall by the Quebec Nordiques.
After a few years as a Nordique, Sundin was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in exchange for the highly popular Leaf captain, Wendel Clark. In his early years in Toronto, he felt both at home and from away, working extra hard to gain acceptance in the world’s toughest hockey market. Even once he was named captain, Sundin didn’t deviate from his quiet nature but instead lead by example, never asking anyone to work harder than he did. Over thirteen seasons with the team, he would learn just how fiery the cauldron of Leafs Nation could be.
In Home and Away, Mats Sundin writes openly for the first time about what it was like for him to uproot his life in Sweden to embark on a long hockey career an ocean away. Home and Away is an elegiac, heartfelt, and honest story of a man who followed his passions, cherished his family, faced heavy scrutiny, and ultimately earned his way into both the hearts of fans and the hockey record books. His journey transcends the rink and shows what it means to be a quiet and unpretentious Swedish kid who went on to become one of the most accomplished players in the history of the game.
320 pages, Hardcover
Published October 22, 2024
51 people are currently reading
432 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
September 21, 2024
Wow! The first chapter was exciting you could feel the emotion of his return to Toronto. Sundin has always been a quiet leader who was monumental to the Leafs team. He played 13 seasons, captain and a fan favourite. In a time before social media, it was great to know more about his time before and during his hockey career. He will always be my favourite player, so it was an emotional read at the end. Watching many of the moments on tv and hearing it from his perspective was nice. I did cry but I was expecting myself to! Loved the book and will always love Sundin
January 6, 2025
When a memoir has you in tears at the end because it’s over, it’s 5 stars.
All the love and respect for Mats.
All the love and respect for Mats.
October 28, 2024
I recently finished reading Home and Away by Mats Sundin, a book I devoured in less than 24 hours. As a busy mom of two hockey-playing boys, a business owner, and a AA hockey team manager, finding time for myself can be a challenge. This weekend, I was grateful to have been away at a hockey tournament with my oldest son, Nikolas where I was afforded the time and space to take in this book I had been eagerly awaiting to digest.
Home and Away is a captivating memoir that offers a heartfelt glimpse into the life of one of hockey’s most iconic players, Mats Sundin.
The narrative is infused with Sundin’s professional achievements and personal reflections. His humility and sincerity, provide readers with an intimate look at his experiences on and off the ice. His anecdotes are not only entertaining but also offer valuable insights into the mindset of a top athlete. The book’s structure effortlessly transitions between Sundin’s life in Sweden and his illustrious career in the NHL, painting a vivid picture of his journey from a young child in Europe to a globally renowned hockey legend.
I vividly recall my first encounter with Mats after a Leaf game. We had driven 2.5 hours from my hometown of Belleville to Toronto for my birthday and by sheer luck, we crossed paths as he headed toward a taxi waiting for him. He graciously signed my Sundin jersey just below my left collarbone, marking a moment I would cherish forever.
The following year on October 28, 1998, brought another memorable meeting. I attended a Meet the Leafs Luncheon where Mats graciously posed for a photograph with me. My excitement was palpable, akin to meeting royalty, which, in the hockey world, he certainly was.
Over the years, I attended several more Maple Leaf games and even travelled to Buffalo in 2004 to watch him play against the Sabres the day after his birthday.
Another unforgettable encounter occurred on February 17th, 2008 at the Leafs Have a Heart dinner, where Mats prepared a risotto that surpassed anything I’d ever tasted. We exchanged pleasantries, and I managed, with varying success, to contain my enthusiasm.
Reading Home and Away was such a pleasure, especially when Mats mentioned my hometown of Belleville and Branko Radivojevic, my favourite Belleville Bull hockey player. These small connections made the vast world of hockey feel a bit more intimate.
As a very long-time fan of Sundin, I found myself getting quite emotional throughout reading as I was remembering parts of my life in moments where he was writing about his. How deeply I followed his career and how I remembered so much of what he wrote about. So many incredible memories. How seemingly quick we were to arrive here in this moment. Those days sometimes feel like ions ago yet like yesterday at the same time. I fondly remember Sundin with his flowy blonde hair and smooth, youthful face. Time has transformed him, his bald head now complements his tall stature, and the lines around his eyes and forehead reflect the distinguished man he has become. His presence still commands a room with a powerful yet gentle demeanour.
Of all the incredible athletes in the world, I am grateful that my heart was drawn to Mats Sundin 30 years ago. He has unknowingly been instrumental in shaping my life. If not for him and his incredible gift as a hockey player, I might never have developed my passion for hockey or made significant connections in the hockey world. My siblings, inspired by my passion, also embraced the sport. My sister even earned a hockey scholarship to play at the University of Superior in Wisconsin.
And finally, perhaps most significantly, my overwhelming love for hockey was one of the key reasons I wasn't able to envision my life in Greece. The passion and community I found within the sport anchored me to a path that led me to where I am today. And for that, I am deeply grateful.
Thank you, Mats and Amy Stuart, for bringing this incredible story to the world. Home and Away is more than just a memoir; it's a testament to the power of perseverance, and the joy found in pursuing one's passion. Whether you're reliving the glory days of the Toronto Maple Leafs or discovering Sundin's legacy for the first time, this book is a must-read.
Home and Away is a captivating memoir that offers a heartfelt glimpse into the life of one of hockey’s most iconic players, Mats Sundin.
The narrative is infused with Sundin’s professional achievements and personal reflections. His humility and sincerity, provide readers with an intimate look at his experiences on and off the ice. His anecdotes are not only entertaining but also offer valuable insights into the mindset of a top athlete. The book’s structure effortlessly transitions between Sundin’s life in Sweden and his illustrious career in the NHL, painting a vivid picture of his journey from a young child in Europe to a globally renowned hockey legend.
I vividly recall my first encounter with Mats after a Leaf game. We had driven 2.5 hours from my hometown of Belleville to Toronto for my birthday and by sheer luck, we crossed paths as he headed toward a taxi waiting for him. He graciously signed my Sundin jersey just below my left collarbone, marking a moment I would cherish forever.
The following year on October 28, 1998, brought another memorable meeting. I attended a Meet the Leafs Luncheon where Mats graciously posed for a photograph with me. My excitement was palpable, akin to meeting royalty, which, in the hockey world, he certainly was.
Over the years, I attended several more Maple Leaf games and even travelled to Buffalo in 2004 to watch him play against the Sabres the day after his birthday.
Another unforgettable encounter occurred on February 17th, 2008 at the Leafs Have a Heart dinner, where Mats prepared a risotto that surpassed anything I’d ever tasted. We exchanged pleasantries, and I managed, with varying success, to contain my enthusiasm.
Reading Home and Away was such a pleasure, especially when Mats mentioned my hometown of Belleville and Branko Radivojevic, my favourite Belleville Bull hockey player. These small connections made the vast world of hockey feel a bit more intimate.
As a very long-time fan of Sundin, I found myself getting quite emotional throughout reading as I was remembering parts of my life in moments where he was writing about his. How deeply I followed his career and how I remembered so much of what he wrote about. So many incredible memories. How seemingly quick we were to arrive here in this moment. Those days sometimes feel like ions ago yet like yesterday at the same time. I fondly remember Sundin with his flowy blonde hair and smooth, youthful face. Time has transformed him, his bald head now complements his tall stature, and the lines around his eyes and forehead reflect the distinguished man he has become. His presence still commands a room with a powerful yet gentle demeanour.
Of all the incredible athletes in the world, I am grateful that my heart was drawn to Mats Sundin 30 years ago. He has unknowingly been instrumental in shaping my life. If not for him and his incredible gift as a hockey player, I might never have developed my passion for hockey or made significant connections in the hockey world. My siblings, inspired by my passion, also embraced the sport. My sister even earned a hockey scholarship to play at the University of Superior in Wisconsin.
And finally, perhaps most significantly, my overwhelming love for hockey was one of the key reasons I wasn't able to envision my life in Greece. The passion and community I found within the sport anchored me to a path that led me to where I am today. And for that, I am deeply grateful.
Thank you, Mats and Amy Stuart, for bringing this incredible story to the world. Home and Away is more than just a memoir; it's a testament to the power of perseverance, and the joy found in pursuing one's passion. Whether you're reliving the glory days of the Toronto Maple Leafs or discovering Sundin's legacy for the first time, this book is a must-read.
January 30, 2025
I really enjoyed the book! I am a huge Leaf fan. I really liked all the stories and Sweden history with Mats. I would love to go to Sweden someday. Still playing hockey at 60 , I love the game too. From Nova Scotia thanks for writing the book, truly enjoyed it!!
December 24, 2024
This was a fantastic read as someone who grew up with Mats Sundin being their favourite player. It was really cool to recount so many childhood hockey & Toronto Maple Leaf memories through Mats' perspective as he shared his entire career, and life, with the readers. The book covered a ton of topics, some of which would have been nice to explore further, but to cover a whole life and career in one book is no small task. A must read for any Leafs or hockey fan!))
December 27, 2024
Easy read but a little bland as far as hockey biographies go. Great young player is drafted first overall and is a great NHL player for 18 years. No drama, no tragedies, no cups, no awards, just stable career and success.
Light on details (agents change without mention, friendships/rivalries mentionned but barely, mentions Don Cherry spewing anti European hate but doesn't really get into it).
Light on details (agents change without mention, friendships/rivalries mentionned but barely, mentions Don Cherry spewing anti European hate but doesn't really get into it).
October 23, 2024
I’m not sure exactly when it was, but I caught the hockey bug hard in the mid-90s. It was then that I fell in love with the Toronto Maple Leafs, the National Hockey League and the sport itself. While I never truly got to play the game myself, I’ve hardly missed a Leafs game over the last few decades, spent too many hours to count playing the video games (from NHLPA 93 to NHL 25), and cheered on my favourite players, including Captain Mats Sundin.
For many of the best years of my fandom, Mats Sundin was the Leafs’ star, leader and voice in the media. As someone who’s quiet, I respected that he wasn’t a seemingly loud leader, and truly enjoyed watching him play. I’d get in arguments with my cousins about how I thought he was the best player the team had ever had, whereas they thought previous captain, Doug Gilmour, was.
I have fond memories of attending games with my parents and friends during that era, and made sure to get a Sundin jersey when I was given a coupon by a season ticket holder I bought tickets off of. Mats also remains my favourite player to this day, despite Auston Matthews’ incredible beginning to his career. Thus, I was happy to hear that he was going to release an autobiography in partnership with author and Leafs fan, Amy Stuart, titled Home and Away.
I was provided an early review copy of this book, and just finished it minutes before beginning this review. I may be biased, but it’s without a doubt the best of its kind that I’ve read, and something that is incredibly easy to recommend. I’m not saying this solely for hockey fans, either; this is a book that is about more than just the sport played on ice, with skates, sticks, pucks and padding. It’s about more than that, and features thoughtful lessons about parenting, being a good person and being a quality teammate. It’ll also appeal to those who are considering, or have already, moved to a completely new part of the world, and everything that comes with it. There’s lots for us hockey fans, though.
Home and Away by Mats Sundin and co-author, Amy Stuart, begins with the night that the longtime Leafs captain and organizational scoring records holder returned as a member of the Vancouver Canucks. After a sad departure from the team, and unfortunate words from some of my fellow fans, he returned to the NHL midway through the next season and managed to score the winning goal against us when the Canucks visited Toronto. Despite my allegiance to the blue and white, I was happy for him and enjoyed the ovations.
This is an interesting place to start such an autobiography, and it brings to mind the title, Home and Away. That’s because, as he says in the book, Mats considers Toronto to be home, at least in conjunction with Sweden, and at one point felt like a guest returning to his home country. The title covers the fact that his career began at home, and flourished away, in a country that became a new home, but I also found that it fit the Vancouver season. It was the first time he’d returned to what was his home city for well over a decade as an ‘away’ team player. I liked that symbolism.
Over the next nearly forty chapters, Mats recounts his childhood, living in a former vacation area wherein his parents put blood, sweat and tears into transforming a hill and building a house, and the beginning of his hockey career. It goes on from there to provide insight, stories and objective facts about what happened during some of his career’s biggest moments, be they playing for Djurgarden, living out his dream of representing Sweden internationally and at the Olympics, and beginning life as an NHL player in Quebec City, as a member of the now defunct Nordiques, before being traded to Toronto for Leafs legend, Wendel Clark. A good portion of this autobiography is, of course, about the years in Toronto, and the off-seasons that followed disappointing playoff bounces that absolutely crushed me as a fan.
I found it very interesting reading about Mats’ relationships with his coaches, backstories about some of my favourite Leafs teams, time spent with teammates and the day-to-day things that fans aren’t privy to. There was a good amount of surprising information, as well. On top of that, I enjoyed hearing about his time in Toronto through his own words, including major events that I still remember watching or reading about.
My family is still unable to get cable, so I had to go my grandparents’ or their neighbour’s to watch almost all games, and ended up listening to some on the radio.
Mats has lived a really interesting life, even without the NHL included. His upbringing, and family vacations, were pretty fascinating to read about. So, too, were his training regiments and his trips to international tournaments.
The writing is quite good. It’s better than average, and was well edited. It’s almost always easy to follow, and doesn’t drag. You won’t be bombarded with stats, or niche terminology, and don’t need to know a lot about hockey to enjoy it.
If you’re a Leafs fan, Home and Away by Mats Sundin and Amy Stuart is a must read. This is also true for anyone with interest in hockey, as well as those who like to read about the lives of others; especially those who’ve lived unique lives and dealt with at least one major move. I was looking forward to this book, and it delivered. I just wish there was more of it.
This review is based on a copy of the book we were provided with.
For many of the best years of my fandom, Mats Sundin was the Leafs’ star, leader and voice in the media. As someone who’s quiet, I respected that he wasn’t a seemingly loud leader, and truly enjoyed watching him play. I’d get in arguments with my cousins about how I thought he was the best player the team had ever had, whereas they thought previous captain, Doug Gilmour, was.
I have fond memories of attending games with my parents and friends during that era, and made sure to get a Sundin jersey when I was given a coupon by a season ticket holder I bought tickets off of. Mats also remains my favourite player to this day, despite Auston Matthews’ incredible beginning to his career. Thus, I was happy to hear that he was going to release an autobiography in partnership with author and Leafs fan, Amy Stuart, titled Home and Away.
I was provided an early review copy of this book, and just finished it minutes before beginning this review. I may be biased, but it’s without a doubt the best of its kind that I’ve read, and something that is incredibly easy to recommend. I’m not saying this solely for hockey fans, either; this is a book that is about more than just the sport played on ice, with skates, sticks, pucks and padding. It’s about more than that, and features thoughtful lessons about parenting, being a good person and being a quality teammate. It’ll also appeal to those who are considering, or have already, moved to a completely new part of the world, and everything that comes with it. There’s lots for us hockey fans, though.
Home and Away by Mats Sundin and co-author, Amy Stuart, begins with the night that the longtime Leafs captain and organizational scoring records holder returned as a member of the Vancouver Canucks. After a sad departure from the team, and unfortunate words from some of my fellow fans, he returned to the NHL midway through the next season and managed to score the winning goal against us when the Canucks visited Toronto. Despite my allegiance to the blue and white, I was happy for him and enjoyed the ovations.
This is an interesting place to start such an autobiography, and it brings to mind the title, Home and Away. That’s because, as he says in the book, Mats considers Toronto to be home, at least in conjunction with Sweden, and at one point felt like a guest returning to his home country. The title covers the fact that his career began at home, and flourished away, in a country that became a new home, but I also found that it fit the Vancouver season. It was the first time he’d returned to what was his home city for well over a decade as an ‘away’ team player. I liked that symbolism.
Over the next nearly forty chapters, Mats recounts his childhood, living in a former vacation area wherein his parents put blood, sweat and tears into transforming a hill and building a house, and the beginning of his hockey career. It goes on from there to provide insight, stories and objective facts about what happened during some of his career’s biggest moments, be they playing for Djurgarden, living out his dream of representing Sweden internationally and at the Olympics, and beginning life as an NHL player in Quebec City, as a member of the now defunct Nordiques, before being traded to Toronto for Leafs legend, Wendel Clark. A good portion of this autobiography is, of course, about the years in Toronto, and the off-seasons that followed disappointing playoff bounces that absolutely crushed me as a fan.
I found it very interesting reading about Mats’ relationships with his coaches, backstories about some of my favourite Leafs teams, time spent with teammates and the day-to-day things that fans aren’t privy to. There was a good amount of surprising information, as well. On top of that, I enjoyed hearing about his time in Toronto through his own words, including major events that I still remember watching or reading about.
My family is still unable to get cable, so I had to go my grandparents’ or their neighbour’s to watch almost all games, and ended up listening to some on the radio.
Mats has lived a really interesting life, even without the NHL included. His upbringing, and family vacations, were pretty fascinating to read about. So, too, were his training regiments and his trips to international tournaments.
The writing is quite good. It’s better than average, and was well edited. It’s almost always easy to follow, and doesn’t drag. You won’t be bombarded with stats, or niche terminology, and don’t need to know a lot about hockey to enjoy it.
If you’re a Leafs fan, Home and Away by Mats Sundin and Amy Stuart is a must read. This is also true for anyone with interest in hockey, as well as those who like to read about the lives of others; especially those who’ve lived unique lives and dealt with at least one major move. I was looking forward to this book, and it delivered. I just wish there was more of it.
This review is based on a copy of the book we were provided with.
January 12, 2025
The first chapter gave me goosebumps and the last chapter had me teary eyed. This memoir was well written and very heartfelt!
As a Leafs fan from a young age I appreciated the nostalgia of revisiting players and events but this book was about more than hockey. It reminds us of the people we have in our lives that sacrifice for us, love us, support us and tell us when we’re wrong.
Each chapter had significance to the game of hockey but also to Sundin’s life outside the game. It was nice to read and watch his story unfold.
As a Leafs fan from a young age I appreciated the nostalgia of revisiting players and events but this book was about more than hockey. It reminds us of the people we have in our lives that sacrifice for us, love us, support us and tell us when we’re wrong.
Each chapter had significance to the game of hockey but also to Sundin’s life outside the game. It was nice to read and watch his story unfold.
April 21, 2025
On a whim I dragged my wife out to meet Mats at one of his book signings in Oshawa, not only did he not disappoint but I completely geeked out meeting one of my favourite hockey players of all time! I finally got around to reading Home and away and much like Mats it didn’t disappoint, I had a hard time putting the book down. Reliving many childhood hood memories from his perspective was a surreal experience and I’d recommend this book to any leafs/hockey fans!
November 9, 2024
He's my all-time NHLer. I love the insight! GO LEAFS GO!
November 2, 2024
that was genuinely so good i am feeling so emotional. but i still can’t believe this man was just casually dropping names of some of the biggest hockey legends
November 4, 2024
Read like a Wikipedia page
January 16, 2025
I will always and forever be a Leafs fan even if they make it hard to cheer for them sometimes. When I was a kid, Mats Sundin was one of my favourite players, but perhaps my favourite Leaf. Reading his autobiography brought memories from my childhood that I vaguely remember of the Leafs as a whole, but it’s also given me an opportunity to read about his life during a time that I never knew.
This book definitely humanizes the athlete a lot. It gives an incredible insight at how demanding it is to make the big leagues from even a young age. Mats makes this book easy to read, and if you’re passionate about the game, maybe even a little teary-eyed. (I had to go back and watch his banner raising ceremony) It’s unfortunate that he never won a Cup, but he’s definitely worthy of the accolades he won during his career even if he’s humble enough to not make them the thing that defines him.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of Sundin, or even just a fan of hockey. It’s an easy read, but it’s in-depth from life before hockey until his retirement. I still love Mats even if he never won a cup.
This book definitely humanizes the athlete a lot. It gives an incredible insight at how demanding it is to make the big leagues from even a young age. Mats makes this book easy to read, and if you’re passionate about the game, maybe even a little teary-eyed. (I had to go back and watch his banner raising ceremony) It’s unfortunate that he never won a Cup, but he’s definitely worthy of the accolades he won during his career even if he’s humble enough to not make them the thing that defines him.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of Sundin, or even just a fan of hockey. It’s an easy read, but it’s in-depth from life before hockey until his retirement. I still love Mats even if he never won a cup.
April 15, 2025
This book was a gift from my sister who is an avid leafs fan. It took me some time to get started reading it but once I started reading I couldn’t put it down. The Toronto Maple Leafs have been. Huge part of my entire life - my father was a hockey fan and I remember many nights going to sleep with Hockey Night in Canada as the background music.
Mays definitely captured how Leafs Nation makes playing in Toronto different than anywhere else in the NHL! There were so many moments in the book that brought back memories for me of the highs and lows of being a die hard Leafs fan! Getting to have a peek inside the dressing room and hearing personal stories of the players that I watched for so many seasons made reading this book a very personal and emotional experience. I found myself in tears several times throughout the book reliving some of the heartbreaking losses over the years and remembering the day that Mats was traded to the leafs in a stunning trade for our beloved Wendel Clark - to learning to embrace his dedication and love for Toronto - to mourning the loss when he was traded to Vancouver!
This book is a must read for all Leaf’s Nations members!
Mays definitely captured how Leafs Nation makes playing in Toronto different than anywhere else in the NHL! There were so many moments in the book that brought back memories for me of the highs and lows of being a die hard Leafs fan! Getting to have a peek inside the dressing room and hearing personal stories of the players that I watched for so many seasons made reading this book a very personal and emotional experience. I found myself in tears several times throughout the book reliving some of the heartbreaking losses over the years and remembering the day that Mats was traded to the leafs in a stunning trade for our beloved Wendel Clark - to learning to embrace his dedication and love for Toronto - to mourning the loss when he was traded to Vancouver!
This book is a must read for all Leaf’s Nations members!
January 1, 2025
As part of the Leaf Nation, Mats Sundin is and probably will be my favourite Leaf player for the rest of my life. Reading this book and his telling the story of all those games he played as a Nordique as a Leaf and as an Olympic gold medal winner for Sweden, he offered his personal insight which to me was like hearing your hero’s words. As a university student in Montreal I could never get Leaf tickets in Montreal but Quebec was close enough to see the Leafs when they came to town and that was the first time I saw Mats play, I was thrilled when he became a Leaf. I met him at his induction to the HHOF (so good to know a guy!!) I will only ever wear my Mats jersey to any Leaf game I go too. Thanks Mats for taking the time to share these stories
November 26, 2024
This is an interesting look into the life of my favourite hockey player, but it’s hardly a tell all. This book offers a window into Mats Sundin’s early life and his hockey career, but I was hoping for more juicy tidbits about his time with the Leafs. Instead, this is a fairly safe telling of his time with the team. If you’re looking for the dirt on intra-team rivalries or locker room conflict, this is not place. If you’re looking for a diverting trip down memory lane then this book might be for you.
February 4, 2025
Så jävla mysig! Tråkigt att Sudden inte läste in boken själv men bra uppläsare ändå.
Väldigt intressant att få följa med hans resa från barndomen till nu. Och folk som skrivit om att dom vill ha smaskiga detaljer och att han namedroppar…klart han måste nämna namn, blir ju skumt ifall han inte nämner folk han spelat med/mot. Jag tyckte det var väldigt kul att få höra om matcherna och legender han träffat.
Väldigt intressant att få följa med hans resa från barndomen till nu. Och folk som skrivit om att dom vill ha smaskiga detaljer och att han namedroppar…klart han måste nämna namn, blir ju skumt ifall han inte nämner folk han spelat med/mot. Jag tyckte det var väldigt kul att få höra om matcherna och legender han träffat.
January 2, 2025
This memoir captures Mats’ voice so vividly that you can almost hear him speaking as you read. It reflects the qualities I’ve always associated with him - humble, gracious and down to earth. While I occasionally wished for a more personal touch, his reserved demeanour is conveyed throughout the book, making the tone feel authentic to who he is. Overall, this book offers an honest and heartfelt glimpse into Sundin’s life, staying true to the person Leafs fans love and admire.
January 17, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. I loved hearing the stories from the point of view of the player. Mats and Amy told a great story of Mats career from start to finish. As a die hard Leafs fan Mats, thank you for all you gave to the City, to the Leafs, and to the game of hockey!
August 7, 2025
This book made me so nostalgic! I grew up as a third generation Leafs fan and Mats Sundin was a staple in my childhood growing up, watching the Leafs with my dad and seeing Sundin leading the team as captain. This was such a fun trip down memory lane and it was so interesting hearing the behind the scenes experience that he had throughout his career.
Read
December 2, 2024I love Mats Sundin so much! I just wish he had narrated the whole thing himself, because you could just feel how much he loved Toronto in the opening chapter
January 15, 2025
Excellent book
March 9, 2025
2.5 stars. It was fun to relive that era of the leafs but the book was pretty… vanilla. Not a lot of real insights, moreso just him recounting what happened in his career.
March 20, 2025
A great player and awesome to hear his journey and perspective on his career.
May 9, 2025
By surprise to no one I loved this book. I laughed. I cried. But most of all I spent hours learning about a childhood hero. 💙🤍💙
June 24, 2025
If you’re a Leaf Nation fan it’s a must read.
November 16, 2024
Mats was my favourite player growing up so I rate this book with a bias. I was also lucky enough to attend the game in which he returned to Toronto as a Canuck so I was hooked from the very first chapter.
I enjoyed hearing about Sweden and his time in Toronto through his lens. I recommend this book the anyone who is a fan of Mats.
I enjoyed hearing about Sweden and his time in Toronto through his lens. I recommend this book the anyone who is a fan of Mats.
February 14, 2025
This book really made me realize that the players I grew up watching on TV are people as well.
5/5
5/5
May 27, 2025
Its dabooknerd here… let’s break this iconic book down.
This book gave “humble hockey king reflects on being iconic” energy. He’s like, “I didn’t mean to be great,” while casually being the guy for the Leafs.
Felt like listening to your cool uncle tell stories — if your uncle was a 6’5” Swedish legend. Would I read it again? Maybe.
This book gave “humble hockey king reflects on being iconic” energy. He’s like, “I didn’t mean to be great,” while casually being the guy for the Leafs.
Felt like listening to your cool uncle tell stories — if your uncle was a 6’5” Swedish legend. Would I read it again? Maybe.
November 24, 2024
Great read about a childhood hero of mine.
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