The Don Cherry Story

by Cindy Cherry

Don Cherry is one of the most well-known Canadians and also one of the most controversial, known for his outspoken opinions on hockey, politics and any number of topics. On Remembrance Day, November 11, 2019, it all came to an end.

However, there's more to Don Cherry than ex-hockey player, coach and broadcaster, which his critics tend to ignore, and who better to share his story than his daughter? Writing from a privileged insider's perspective, Cindy Cherry offers a frank account of her father's life and career in front of and behind the camera, on and off the ice—not to mention behind the bench.

Touching on everything from his playing days and coaching career to his rise as one of Canada's most sought-after broadcasters and product spokespersons, Cindy also discusses his continual support of many charities and how all his endeavours affected his family. This book provides an intimate look at the inside world of hockey not only as a sport but also as a lifestyle.

No matter what your opinion of Don Cherry is going in, it's sure to be challenged and enlightened by this nuanced, unflinching account of a life that is as colourful, flamboyant and controversial as his language and the suits for which he is famous.

A portion of the sales from this book will Don Cherry's Pet Rescue Foundation

Genres: Sports, Hockey, Biography

208 pages, Hardcover

Published March 26, 2025

Reviews

[Jim · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was hugely disappointed in this book, and a three-star rating might be erring on the side of generosity. Don Cherry, for those who don't know, is a Canadian icon. He was basically Mister Hockey here in Canada, having had a brief run as a professional player followed by a more successful stint as a coach, which led to employment as a television commentator and other hockey-related entrepreneurial ventures. The Cherry family thrived off of his connection to the sport. He was controversial in his role of commentator, being conservative in his views and unguarded in voicing his opinion. The day came when he made the "you people" comment about people who didn't wear poppies on Remembrance Day in honour of our war dead. Leftists lost their minds, and the lickspittle broadcaster he was working for wanted him to issue a groveling apology, which he had too much pride to do. It resulted in his loss of employment and an increase in his popularity.

So when I took my pathetic Canadian loonies, that currency so criminally devalued by the same liberals who disliked Cherry's comments, and used those dollars to purchase a book entitled The Don Cherry Story, I kind of expected to get a book about Don Cherry. It's not that he doesn't get mentioned in the book, but I came away with the impression that the author's intention was to use her relationship with her father to write about herself. This is unfortunate because she comes across as one of these entitled self-centered know-it-alls that one encounters from time to time.

I don't think the author had any idea how she would be perceived by her readers. She seems to believe that bad habits and boorish behaviour are inherited genetic traits. Messiness? - "Unfortunately, I have inherited that gene." Can't sleep on the plane? - "I have inherited the gene from Dad that won't let us". Can't get over the fact that the paper misspelled a relative's name?- "I wish I had that gene". And there was this corker on page 87: That's why I never give lottery tickets as gifts: it leads to hard feelings for me if they are winners. I believe this type of thinking is genetic, wired in your brain." She also describes herself at various points as someone who is vindictive, holds a grudge, and as a stinging scorpion. I could go on and on about the way she holds forth on volunteer coaches, parents, spectators, even cyclists, not to mention her own boorish behaviour at hockey games, but I think I have made my point.

To sum up, the book is poorly edited, maybe not proofread, but it does have some value for the reader in that it gives a family member's viewpoint into the hockey life, the changes of scenery and the politics involved with hirings and firings. Aside from the fact that she thinks that being a bitch is inherited, the girl obviously loves her Dad and is very supportive, so full points for that. And she donated a kidney to her brother, so maybe she's not as mean as she lets on. Lots of family photos are included, many of which - unsurprisingly - feature the author.

[Elaine · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was just ok. I was expecting more of a life story from the perspective of Don Cherry's daughter. Part 2 of the book did cover more of the family's beginnings and Don Cherry's coaching career which was interesting. He was/is involved in alot of different businesses as well as charities which also shows his generous nature. He is a no-nonsense type and also fair and I believe at times, misunderstood.

[Darren · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book. It was a good book about Don Cherry written by her late daughter. May she rest in peace. It was well written. I would recommend it to any one that likes Don Cherry. I have always listened to his podcast and remember when he had his show on tv called Don Cherry's Grapevine. I liked the podcast and the show on tv.

[Rhonda Patrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

excellent read. Felt like Cindy was sitting at my kitchen table having coffee over a great conversation. Very readable. Nice to read of some family background and get to know the real personality of Don.
Sorry when it was over. My heart goes out to the Cherry family, Don, Tim and Cindy's son. It is not just about hockey, but about a close knit family. Highly recommend it.

[Linda Flanagan77 · Rating 2 out of 5]

Cringe. Very defensive tone that quite often is very off putting.

[Robert Sadler · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story of Don Cherry. I do feel it's biased since it was written by his daughter.