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Orr: My Story
One of the greatest sports figures of all time at last breaks his silence in a memoir as unique as the man himself. Number 4. It is just about the most common number in hockey, but invoke that number and you can only be talking about one player -- the man often referred to as the greatest ever to play the Bobby Orr. From 1966 through the mid-70s he could change a game just by stepping on the ice. Orr could do things that others simply couldn’t, and while teammates and opponents alike scrambled to keep up, at times they could do little more than stop and watch. Many of his records still stand today and he remains the gold standard by which all other players are judged. Mention his name to any hockey fan – or to anyone in New England – and a look of awe will appear. But skill on the ice is only a part of his story. All of the trophies, records, and press clippings leave unsaid as much about the man as they reveal. They tell us what Orr did, but don’t tell us what inspired him, who taught him, or what he learned along the way. They don’t tell what it was like for a shy small-town kid to become one of the most celebrated athletes in the history of the game, all the while in the full glare of the media. They don’t tell us what it was like when the agent he regarded as his brother betrayed him and left him in financial ruin, at the same time his battered knee left him unable to play the game he himself had redefined only a few seasons earlier. They don’t tell about the players and people he learned to most admire along the way. They don’t tell what he thinks of the game of hockey today. Orr himself has never put all this into words, until now. After decades of refusing to speak of his past in articles or “authorized” biographies, he finally tells his story, because he has something to “I am a parent and a grandparent and I believe that I have lessons worth passing along.” In the end, this is not just a book about hockey. The most meaningful biographies and memoirs rise above the careers out of which they grew. Bobby Orr’s life goes far deeper than Stanley Cup rings, trophies and recognitions. His story is not only about the game, but also the age in which it was played. It’s the story of a small-town kid who came to define its highs and lows, and inevitably it is a story of the lessons he learned along the way.
340 pages, Paperback
First published October 15, 2013
226 people are currently reading
2013 people want to read
About the author
Bobby Orr
23 books24 followersRobert Gordon "Bobby" Orr is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player, widely acknowledged as one of the greatest hockey players of all time. Orr used his ice skating speed, scoring, and play-making abilities to revolutionize the position of defenceman. He played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for 12 seasons, starting with 10 with the Boston Bruins followed by two with the Chicago Black Hawks. Orr remains the only defenceman to have won the league scoring title with two Art Ross Trophies. He holds the record for most points and assists in a single season by a defenceman. Orr won a record eight consecutive Norris Trophies as the NHL's best defenceman and three consecutive Hart Trophies as the league's most valuable player (MVP). Orr was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1979 at age 31, the youngest to be inducted at that time. After his hockey career, he became a well-known scout for many professional teams. He also spends time talking to and mentoring young skaters.
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December 24, 2024
Don’t let the three star rating fool you!
I LOVED it... at least the first few chapters about growing up and hanging out with other kids, little tykes all of ‘em, who loved pretending they were hockey pros in those far-off wintry days on the gravel roads (for us) or icy lakes (for Orr) of 1950’s small-town Ontario!
Halcyon years that flew by in a flash for all of us, lucky to have been alive at that simple time.
My brother and I made a close friend in those years. His name was Ricky. He lived kitty-corner to us in another tiny postwar bungalow. We faked NHL hockey face-offs with Ricky for as long as the cold weather lasted!
Those years were Golden for Orr - as for us and Ricky - scrambling and skirmishing with hockey sticks that could double as lethal weapons, and an old tennis ball that always ended its days looking like a Pac-Man with the leering grin of death, mouth yawning open, all agape.
And we would come home as defunct as our tennis ball, and sprawl on the couch as the purple cloud-fingers that covered the setting sun heralded the arrival of another long winter’s night! And warm our toes at last...
Hockey in winter was great. As were the other Canadian sports of the bitter sub-zero days of “the dark time of the year.” Never much good at skiing - I was anything but suave and svelte on two boards - but, man, how I loved tobogganing...
I kicked myself, though, the night when Disney’s fifties Zorro series premiered, and I missed the key to Don Diego’s donning of the mask & cape (duh - pretty obvious these days) due to my old beat-up toboggan... But Ricky caught the show, and rubbed in that gloating fact for days afterward. Ah, the ups and downs of winter sports!
Hockey likewise had its downside for Orr.
Or, as Obe Wan Knobe would say - its Dark Side...
So for me, the first part of this book is the best. Up until Orr’s disablement due to his knees.
Yes, the wonderful parts of Orr’s book are those early days, as ingenuous as his facial expressions always were - before the big boys of the NHL stepped in and ruined this wunderbar wunderkind’s physical health and finances.
So, both the good and the bad get equal ice time in this easy-to-digest read.
But aside from those extremes, what the book imprinted most on my mind is a motto worthy to be inscribed on Stone, to whit,
THIS, boys, is a true gentleman!
Not that the self-abasing star of this book would ever say that...
But it shines forth in everything he did.
ESPECIALLY in forgiving Alan Eagleson!
I LOVED it... at least the first few chapters about growing up and hanging out with other kids, little tykes all of ‘em, who loved pretending they were hockey pros in those far-off wintry days on the gravel roads (for us) or icy lakes (for Orr) of 1950’s small-town Ontario!
Halcyon years that flew by in a flash for all of us, lucky to have been alive at that simple time.
My brother and I made a close friend in those years. His name was Ricky. He lived kitty-corner to us in another tiny postwar bungalow. We faked NHL hockey face-offs with Ricky for as long as the cold weather lasted!
Those years were Golden for Orr - as for us and Ricky - scrambling and skirmishing with hockey sticks that could double as lethal weapons, and an old tennis ball that always ended its days looking like a Pac-Man with the leering grin of death, mouth yawning open, all agape.
And we would come home as defunct as our tennis ball, and sprawl on the couch as the purple cloud-fingers that covered the setting sun heralded the arrival of another long winter’s night! And warm our toes at last...
Hockey in winter was great. As were the other Canadian sports of the bitter sub-zero days of “the dark time of the year.” Never much good at skiing - I was anything but suave and svelte on two boards - but, man, how I loved tobogganing...
I kicked myself, though, the night when Disney’s fifties Zorro series premiered, and I missed the key to Don Diego’s donning of the mask & cape (duh - pretty obvious these days) due to my old beat-up toboggan... But Ricky caught the show, and rubbed in that gloating fact for days afterward. Ah, the ups and downs of winter sports!
Hockey likewise had its downside for Orr.
Or, as Obe Wan Knobe would say - its Dark Side...
So for me, the first part of this book is the best. Up until Orr’s disablement due to his knees.
Yes, the wonderful parts of Orr’s book are those early days, as ingenuous as his facial expressions always were - before the big boys of the NHL stepped in and ruined this wunderbar wunderkind’s physical health and finances.
So, both the good and the bad get equal ice time in this easy-to-digest read.
But aside from those extremes, what the book imprinted most on my mind is a motto worthy to be inscribed on Stone, to whit,
THIS, boys, is a true gentleman!
Not that the self-abasing star of this book would ever say that...
But it shines forth in everything he did.
ESPECIALLY in forgiving Alan Eagleson!
January 6, 2015
When your favorite hockey player of all time (finally) writes his autobiography, you've just got to buy it in hardback. (He deserves the money!!! He earned it, many times over...) Buying the book is worth it just for the photos - and kudos to Orr for gratifying his fans and followers by including three (not one, not two, but three) sets of glossy photo plates (a fun mix of black & whites, plus plenty of color shots too)! And the appendix - listing the jaw-dropping statistics and the awards - is a nice reference.... And, sure, there's a story or two in there you've never heard before.
But, hey, at the end of the day, sometimes biographies are simply better than autobiographies. And, let's be honest, what can we expect from a guy who left home at, what, 14, to play hockey and, apparently, never really finished high school (and, concedes, later in the book: "I was never particularly fond of school and couldn't imagine having to sit through four years of university to get a degree.")? And you can't expect too much from the prose, when Orr's collaborator concedes that when he suggested certain phrases, they were rejected by Orr's simple declaration: "Too much honey."
Moreover, one of Orr's defining (and, arguably, endearing) qualities is an unwillingness to brag or talk about his individual successes. (My favorite example: he mentions that "six guys [on his team] scored twenty goals or more" but he doesn't mention that he (individually) led the entire league in scoring - while playing defense!!!) All of which means - unfortunately - that if you don't already know the Bobby Orr story, you will often be (extremely) confused by Orr's factual recitations which frequently ignore the elephant in the room.... Which kind of defeats the purpose of a biography but, again, well, this is a special kind of autobiography....
But, hey, at the end of the day, sometimes biographies are simply better than autobiographies. And, let's be honest, what can we expect from a guy who left home at, what, 14, to play hockey and, apparently, never really finished high school (and, concedes, later in the book: "I was never particularly fond of school and couldn't imagine having to sit through four years of university to get a degree.")? And you can't expect too much from the prose, when Orr's collaborator concedes that when he suggested certain phrases, they were rejected by Orr's simple declaration: "Too much honey."
Moreover, one of Orr's defining (and, arguably, endearing) qualities is an unwillingness to brag or talk about his individual successes. (My favorite example: he mentions that "six guys [on his team] scored twenty goals or more" but he doesn't mention that he (individually) led the entire league in scoring - while playing defense!!!) All of which means - unfortunately - that if you don't already know the Bobby Orr story, you will often be (extremely) confused by Orr's factual recitations which frequently ignore the elephant in the room.... Which kind of defeats the purpose of a biography but, again, well, this is a special kind of autobiography....
May 8, 2014
Class.
Bobby Orr, who was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame at age 31, was instilled with class by his parents at an early age and he carries forward the same distinction today.
His autobiography details how he followed his childhood dream by parlaying his gifted skills along with much passion to become one of the best hockey players to lace up skates. Orr thrived on controlling the puck, which meant controlling the tempo of the game and his trademark was his gliding skating motion that seemed effortless.
Early on an astute coach noticed that although Orr had a knack for scoring goals he should play defense rather than offense to skate the full length of the rink. The Boston Bruins were fortunate that he penned his contract to don the black and gold uniform. Bobby Orr’s famous overtime goal on May 10, 1970 gave the Bruins their first hold on the Stanly Cup in several decades. He lived his dream, yet the humble individual, who grew up in a small Canadian community had firm roots giving his all in each game not for money or fame, but out of simple respect for the game of hockey. In today’s society that is a very rare factor. Bobby Orr was a role model to many including myself.
As a Massachusetts youth I often lay in bed late at night with the lights off listening to the Bruins on the radio. Controlling the puck on his stick Orr would often circle his own net to gather momentum followed by shifting gears and changing speed heading down ice. As often as this pattern occurred positive results were in order as the opposition either skated backwards or followed in pursuit. When Orr scored his notorious championship goal I was on cloud nine and looking forward to high school graduation just weeks away.
The black & white and color photos of family, fly fishing, and hockey played in the era of no helmets fully enhanced the book.
Bobby Orr, who was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame at age 31, was instilled with class by his parents at an early age and he carries forward the same distinction today.
His autobiography details how he followed his childhood dream by parlaying his gifted skills along with much passion to become one of the best hockey players to lace up skates. Orr thrived on controlling the puck, which meant controlling the tempo of the game and his trademark was his gliding skating motion that seemed effortless.
Early on an astute coach noticed that although Orr had a knack for scoring goals he should play defense rather than offense to skate the full length of the rink. The Boston Bruins were fortunate that he penned his contract to don the black and gold uniform. Bobby Orr’s famous overtime goal on May 10, 1970 gave the Bruins their first hold on the Stanly Cup in several decades. He lived his dream, yet the humble individual, who grew up in a small Canadian community had firm roots giving his all in each game not for money or fame, but out of simple respect for the game of hockey. In today’s society that is a very rare factor. Bobby Orr was a role model to many including myself.
As a Massachusetts youth I often lay in bed late at night with the lights off listening to the Bruins on the radio. Controlling the puck on his stick Orr would often circle his own net to gather momentum followed by shifting gears and changing speed heading down ice. As often as this pattern occurred positive results were in order as the opposition either skated backwards or followed in pursuit. When Orr scored his notorious championship goal I was on cloud nine and looking forward to high school graduation just weeks away.
The black & white and color photos of family, fly fishing, and hockey played in the era of no helmets fully enhanced the book.
August 13, 2016
A tough one to review. Let's be clear straight off the bat. Bobby Orr has always been my favorite sports figure, bar none. As a boy I wanted to be a defenseman like him (that dream didn't last long!), I wrote him in 3rd grade, I had his record lp, etc. Once some perspective arrived, I found that I still admired him above nearly all others. He was, of course, possibly the greatest hockey player ever - certainly in the top 5. And perhaps more significantly, he was and is a truly good person, filled with respect, passion, and quiet goodness. All reasons to love the man. But the book? It does reinforce those core perceptions about Bobby - he is, at age 60, still genuinely bewildered by all the interest in him. He still values the team above individual awards. So that core of decency shines through in almost every chapter. That said, the book is not particularly interesting. Sure, you get a thin overview of his career, and he offers a few interesting insights about players, games, and decisions. But, and I hate to say this, it's all a bit mundane. By telling us he won't dish out dirt on other people (an admirable fact), he deprives his memoir of one of the things that draws readers - real, personal insight into the headlining figures of the era. Bobby's also genuinely interested in thanking almost everyone he's encountered in his life and career - again, laudable, but never analytical or critical. I guess that's ultimately my biggest regret - there's very little analysis here, of people or situations. This point is perhaps why the final chapter is, in my view, the most interesting: here he weighs in on the state of the game, offering his opinion about various rules changes. Nothing particularly surprising (as throughout the book), but he does take a stand. In the end I was pleased to read about one of my lasting sports heroes in his own words; but the qualities that make Bobby such an impressive person are exactly those that render his memoir a bit punchless.
June 8, 2015
It is unthinkable in modern sport history for a player regarded as one of the greatest players - perhaps, the greatest ever - to ever play a particular discipline of sport to keep mum for nearly 35 years. It is a testament to his impeccable integrity and moral uprightness. Think of his achievements as a player: over 35 and more years ago he set so many records, several of which still stand today. Betrayal and mismanagement of his finances left him in ruins but he maintained a dignified silence through it all.
Thirty-five years after retiring from the game that he loved more than life Bobby Orr's Orr: My Story (Putnam Adult, October 2013) may be a story that comes 35 years too late but it the story of a man who has lessons worth passing on. It is a readable, highly enjoyable book that records both the lows and highs of Orr's stunning career. If you are an Orr's or a Bruin's fan, you'd enjoy this book of an amazing player.
Thirty-five years after retiring from the game that he loved more than life Bobby Orr's Orr: My Story (Putnam Adult, October 2013) may be a story that comes 35 years too late but it the story of a man who has lessons worth passing on. It is a readable, highly enjoyable book that records both the lows and highs of Orr's stunning career. If you are an Orr's or a Bruin's fan, you'd enjoy this book of an amazing player.
September 30, 2013
Disclaimer: publisher sent me an advance copy specifically to get a review on here. I don't believe this biased my evaluation, though.
quick read about the life of one of the best hockey players ever. By his own admission, he's not one to brag a great deal, and he's not into gossip (e.g., addresses the colorful personal life of his teammate Derek Sanderson in about a paragraph), so it's mostly earnest, sincere stuff about what a great coach so-and-so was and how much he learned playing with this or that teammate. The only negative part to speak of is the chapter about the agent who defrauded him out of a large amount of money. I don't follow hockey closely, and I knew all about that, so I guess it had already been well-publicized.
Some touching reminiscence about how much he loved to play as a kid, and how frustrating it was to have his career cut short by knee injuries. He's gone on to run youth hockey programs and has insightful material on trying to teach good sportspersonship and prevent over-the-top parents from ruining the game for their kids.
Reading about his start in the game reminds you how much has change in pro sports over the last 40-50 years. He was probably the most sought-after junior player ever, but his first contract in 1962 [reproduced in the book] was a hand-written document including such provisions as the Bruins' paying to have the family's house "stuccoed" "in full, at a cost of approximately 850 dollars". I wonder if there's still time for one of my kids to become a hockey superstar and get our home repair work covered?
Somewhat self-indulgent aside of a chapter about how great his friend Don Cherry is and why he should be in the Hall of Fame, but for the most part well-edited narrative by an all-time great. Those more into hockey might rate it higher than I did.
quick read about the life of one of the best hockey players ever. By his own admission, he's not one to brag a great deal, and he's not into gossip (e.g., addresses the colorful personal life of his teammate Derek Sanderson in about a paragraph), so it's mostly earnest, sincere stuff about what a great coach so-and-so was and how much he learned playing with this or that teammate. The only negative part to speak of is the chapter about the agent who defrauded him out of a large amount of money. I don't follow hockey closely, and I knew all about that, so I guess it had already been well-publicized.
Some touching reminiscence about how much he loved to play as a kid, and how frustrating it was to have his career cut short by knee injuries. He's gone on to run youth hockey programs and has insightful material on trying to teach good sportspersonship and prevent over-the-top parents from ruining the game for their kids.
Reading about his start in the game reminds you how much has change in pro sports over the last 40-50 years. He was probably the most sought-after junior player ever, but his first contract in 1962 [reproduced in the book] was a hand-written document including such provisions as the Bruins' paying to have the family's house "stuccoed" "in full, at a cost of approximately 850 dollars". I wonder if there's still time for one of my kids to become a hockey superstar and get our home repair work covered?
Somewhat self-indulgent aside of a chapter about how great his friend Don Cherry is and why he should be in the Hall of Fame, but for the most part well-edited narrative by an all-time great. Those more into hockey might rate it higher than I did.
January 6, 2014
Sometimes I regret reading an autobiography by someone I hold in high esteem, because the reality often doesn't live up to my image of the person. Here I had no such problem. In fact, while I didn't think it was possible, I respect Bobby Orr even more after reading his book.
I do not come from a family of hockey fans. When I was 12, I happened across a game on TV. This was in 1974, Orr's last full season as a Bruin. Watching him play mesmerized me, and he is the reason I am, to this day, an avid fan of the sport in general and the Boston Bruins in particular.
Some fans might be disappointed because Orr does not offer a lot of behind-the-scenes kind of detail about his interactions with other players. But those stories do not belong to him alone and, therefore, he does not feel comfortable telling them. He also doesn't give much detail about his career in the way of stats, records he holds, awards, and trophies. He tells us that those things are public knowledge and he didn't want to write a book of bragging rights. I have tremendous respect for his choice not to give us a book full of gossip and inflated ego. Instead, we're treated to a glimpse of the broad spectrum of his life, from the early pond hockey games to his current career as an agent.
As an added bonus, this book contains a bunch of very cool photos!
I do not come from a family of hockey fans. When I was 12, I happened across a game on TV. This was in 1974, Orr's last full season as a Bruin. Watching him play mesmerized me, and he is the reason I am, to this day, an avid fan of the sport in general and the Boston Bruins in particular.
Some fans might be disappointed because Orr does not offer a lot of behind-the-scenes kind of detail about his interactions with other players. But those stories do not belong to him alone and, therefore, he does not feel comfortable telling them. He also doesn't give much detail about his career in the way of stats, records he holds, awards, and trophies. He tells us that those things are public knowledge and he didn't want to write a book of bragging rights. I have tremendous respect for his choice not to give us a book full of gossip and inflated ego. Instead, we're treated to a glimpse of the broad spectrum of his life, from the early pond hockey games to his current career as an agent.
As an added bonus, this book contains a bunch of very cool photos!
October 23, 2013
I have been waiting 30 years for this book.
I became a Bobby Orr fan about 100 years ago, or so it seems.
In my opinion Bobby Orr was and still is the greatest person to ever play in the NHL. So of course all my opinions will be biased.
I have read many books about Mr. Orr and all of them were pretty much the same. Speculation and other peoples side of the story. Never was there Bobby's side of the story.
Now there is. I was very interested in hearing his side of the Alan Eagleson story. He would never talk of it - now he does.
I was always intrigued about his wife and children. I always wondered why his sons never played hockey. I have my answer.
This book will not be for everyone. He does not regale us with too many memories of his accomplishments. He never held personal reward in high regard. He speaks of his family and his friends made through hockey, of significant moments in his career that taught lessons in life.
It took me about 6 hours to read this book over two days. I could not put it down. But like I said, I had a vested interest in his story.
A good read if you are an Orr fan.
I became a Bobby Orr fan about 100 years ago, or so it seems.
In my opinion Bobby Orr was and still is the greatest person to ever play in the NHL. So of course all my opinions will be biased.
I have read many books about Mr. Orr and all of them were pretty much the same. Speculation and other peoples side of the story. Never was there Bobby's side of the story.
Now there is. I was very interested in hearing his side of the Alan Eagleson story. He would never talk of it - now he does.
I was always intrigued about his wife and children. I always wondered why his sons never played hockey. I have my answer.
This book will not be for everyone. He does not regale us with too many memories of his accomplishments. He never held personal reward in high regard. He speaks of his family and his friends made through hockey, of significant moments in his career that taught lessons in life.
It took me about 6 hours to read this book over two days. I could not put it down. But like I said, I had a vested interest in his story.
A good read if you are an Orr fan.
January 5, 2014
I was thrilled to meet Bobby Orr, and have him sign his autobiography. How many athletes forever changed the position they played? No question: Bobby did. He is extremely modest, downplaying his exceptional skill, chronicling his life from a young boy in Parry Sound, Ontario to becoming the most highly paid and arguably successful hockey player of his era, winning two Stanley Cups. Bobby also intertwines his philosophy of youth and professional sports, and with only one exception, if full of praise for everyone, except felon Alan Eagleson. Great guy.
August 26, 2013
In an era of sports where so many of the star athletes seem to have no clue as how to behave with class and dignity, I'm thinking of Alex Rodriguez in particular, this is a book that should be read by all professional athletes. Quite a few of them should think long and hard about what Mr. Orr has to say about what it means to be a professional athlete !
May 25, 2024
Hard to follow at times, but good stories from his career.
September 4, 2016
See this link for photo referenced in opening statement of my review:
http://stanleyformanphotos.com/news/?...
This photo is the one photo missing from Mr. Orr’s biography. A terrific book that covers the many aspects of his life, personal, professional, and in all manners of dignity simply a decent read. I was disappointed of course there was no mention of the Vietnam Veterans in this book – but as a kid growing up in Canada I recall a CBC news article on television that showed a picture of U.S. Army Soldiers in Phu Bai South Vietnam that took a picture with the poster shown here in between all the players – one soldier was at the time also holding a poster or a flag of the Boston Bruin logo and #4 ORR sweater number. This said, the lack of inclusion of this photo and lack of even a small reference to the Vietnam Veterans of the era does not in itself take away from this book.
The story is both interesting and heart felt. The final chapters of this book is where Mr. Orr opens up to his fans and public and in some ways was able to dispel and exorcise whatever small demons may have existed due to none other than the business mogul turned player criminal in both Canada and the USA in Alan Eagleson. Mr. Orr struggles a bit following his early end to the hockey he loved and the NHL that he played for – like a phoenix however he reinvents himself and today is successful on many fronts to the business aspect of hockey while attempting to care for the youth who play sport. He has some solid advice within these pages for parents, coaches, and the application of the business model. Even keel temperament and individual responsibility lay at the heart of this advice.
It was quite touching to read of his respect for Mr. Hockey in Gordie Howe – this book was published when Mr. Howe was still alive. There are other hockey players he references within these pages as well such as Jean Béliveau, Phil Esposito, Johnny Bucyck, Serge Sevard; announcers in Foster Hewitt; fishing trips with baseball great Ted Williams of the Boston Red Sox, and a deep respect for Larry Bird of the Boston Celtics, and a modern day reference and respect for Tom Brady Quarterback for the New England Patriots. I enjoyed the reference to Mildt Schmidt a coach he played for in the early days of his career. Milt was known as “Uncle Milty” a reference to the “Uncle Milty” show of the 1950’s starring none other than Milton Berle – an American class act for the era that led all the way through the 1980’s. Mr. Orr is proud of his Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada roots – reading of how he played hockey as a young boy on the lakes, creeks, and other watered areas reminded me of my own humble beginnings in the sport as I was raised in London and Windsor Ontario Canada. I recall quite vividly having a hockey card after Mr. Orr was traded to Chicago – the favorite part of those old time hockey cards for me was the cartoon stick men drawn on the back the phrases that most likely would represent the player featured on the front. On the back of this card the stick man was actually two men – one of Bobby Hull and Bobby Orr both – the caption read “Just call us Bobby!” That card ended up in the spokes of my bike like most other baseball and hockey cards of the era. As a kid I simply enjoyed the flickering sound as my wheels would turn and the spokes would hit whatever card dejour would be placed there on any given day. Though I wish I had that card now among many others of the era gone by, I am equally glad I could be a simply kid at the time as well.
Between Ken Dryden’s book, Gordie Howe’s book, and now Bobby Orr’s book – I would have to say that Mr. Dryden’s is still my favorite. Mr. Howe can no longer come back to update his book but I hope Mr. Mark Howe will; I also hope that Mr. Orr will come back and provide to his fans and fans of all sports the periodic update. In this book I found a new respect for Mr. Don Cherry – a guy hockey fans either love or hate. As a U.S. Marine – I simply appreciate the straight forwardness of this book – honest to a point and heartfelt to near tear. Thank you Mr. Orr.
http://stanleyformanphotos.com/news/?...
This photo is the one photo missing from Mr. Orr’s biography. A terrific book that covers the many aspects of his life, personal, professional, and in all manners of dignity simply a decent read. I was disappointed of course there was no mention of the Vietnam Veterans in this book – but as a kid growing up in Canada I recall a CBC news article on television that showed a picture of U.S. Army Soldiers in Phu Bai South Vietnam that took a picture with the poster shown here in between all the players – one soldier was at the time also holding a poster or a flag of the Boston Bruin logo and #4 ORR sweater number. This said, the lack of inclusion of this photo and lack of even a small reference to the Vietnam Veterans of the era does not in itself take away from this book.
The story is both interesting and heart felt. The final chapters of this book is where Mr. Orr opens up to his fans and public and in some ways was able to dispel and exorcise whatever small demons may have existed due to none other than the business mogul turned player criminal in both Canada and the USA in Alan Eagleson. Mr. Orr struggles a bit following his early end to the hockey he loved and the NHL that he played for – like a phoenix however he reinvents himself and today is successful on many fronts to the business aspect of hockey while attempting to care for the youth who play sport. He has some solid advice within these pages for parents, coaches, and the application of the business model. Even keel temperament and individual responsibility lay at the heart of this advice.
It was quite touching to read of his respect for Mr. Hockey in Gordie Howe – this book was published when Mr. Howe was still alive. There are other hockey players he references within these pages as well such as Jean Béliveau, Phil Esposito, Johnny Bucyck, Serge Sevard; announcers in Foster Hewitt; fishing trips with baseball great Ted Williams of the Boston Red Sox, and a deep respect for Larry Bird of the Boston Celtics, and a modern day reference and respect for Tom Brady Quarterback for the New England Patriots. I enjoyed the reference to Mildt Schmidt a coach he played for in the early days of his career. Milt was known as “Uncle Milty” a reference to the “Uncle Milty” show of the 1950’s starring none other than Milton Berle – an American class act for the era that led all the way through the 1980’s. Mr. Orr is proud of his Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada roots – reading of how he played hockey as a young boy on the lakes, creeks, and other watered areas reminded me of my own humble beginnings in the sport as I was raised in London and Windsor Ontario Canada. I recall quite vividly having a hockey card after Mr. Orr was traded to Chicago – the favorite part of those old time hockey cards for me was the cartoon stick men drawn on the back the phrases that most likely would represent the player featured on the front. On the back of this card the stick man was actually two men – one of Bobby Hull and Bobby Orr both – the caption read “Just call us Bobby!” That card ended up in the spokes of my bike like most other baseball and hockey cards of the era. As a kid I simply enjoyed the flickering sound as my wheels would turn and the spokes would hit whatever card dejour would be placed there on any given day. Though I wish I had that card now among many others of the era gone by, I am equally glad I could be a simply kid at the time as well.
Between Ken Dryden’s book, Gordie Howe’s book, and now Bobby Orr’s book – I would have to say that Mr. Dryden’s is still my favorite. Mr. Howe can no longer come back to update his book but I hope Mr. Mark Howe will; I also hope that Mr. Orr will come back and provide to his fans and fans of all sports the periodic update. In this book I found a new respect for Mr. Don Cherry – a guy hockey fans either love or hate. As a U.S. Marine – I simply appreciate the straight forwardness of this book – honest to a point and heartfelt to near tear. Thank you Mr. Orr.
September 2, 2016
I've always considered Orr to be the best Hockey player I've ever seen. There was no one, including Gretsky or Crosby, who could control the game the way Orr did. He also did quite a bit to change how players look at contracts and money; no one should have to repeat the lessons that he learned the hard way.
That said, I found the book to be a bit of a disappointment. It certainly isn't a "tell all" type autobiography, in fact, whenever anything remotely touches his personal feelings towards others, he stops and says he won't discuss that.
Not to say that there isn't a lot of good stories told, and the book is certainly worthwhile reading; an indispensable one if you are an Orr or Bruins fan (just for the record, I am NOT a Bruins fan). Like his career, Orr's book leaves you with the "What if ..." feeling.
That said, I found the book to be a bit of a disappointment. It certainly isn't a "tell all" type autobiography, in fact, whenever anything remotely touches his personal feelings towards others, he stops and says he won't discuss that.
Not to say that there isn't a lot of good stories told, and the book is certainly worthwhile reading; an indispensable one if you are an Orr or Bruins fan (just for the record, I am NOT a Bruins fan). Like his career, Orr's book leaves you with the "What if ..." feeling.
November 24, 2016
This was the second time I read this book and loved it. I read the book a second time leading up to a book signing where I met the man—the legend—Bobby Orr. The humble, modest, Mr. Orr loomed larger than life that day, yet interacted with his admirers like he was a friend at a restaurant.
This is a fantastic retrospective into Bobby's early years. The story takes you behind the scenes, with a personal feel, and brings you along as his life and career evolve.
If you're a fan of Bobby, a fan hockey, or just enjoy reading biographies about amazing human beings, you need to read this book.
Enjoy!
-R
This is a fantastic retrospective into Bobby's early years. The story takes you behind the scenes, with a personal feel, and brings you along as his life and career evolve.
If you're a fan of Bobby, a fan hockey, or just enjoy reading biographies about amazing human beings, you need to read this book.
Enjoy!
-R
January 13, 2015
Bobby Orr is a true hockey hero. He started just as a boy with the love of a game but through hard work and sacrifice he became a legend.
As someone who plays ice hockey, I especially enjoyed his insights about youth hockey and his thoughts about the "new" rules of the NHL.
Mr. Orr inspires us all to uphold the values of respect and responsibility on and off the ice. Todays sports professionals could learn some valuable lessons from his example.
As someone who plays ice hockey, I especially enjoyed his insights about youth hockey and his thoughts about the "new" rules of the NHL.
Mr. Orr inspires us all to uphold the values of respect and responsibility on and off the ice. Todays sports professionals could learn some valuable lessons from his example.
January 29, 2018
Mention the name “Bobby Orr” and hockey fans will envision the man who revolutionized how defensemen play the game and non-fans will even know that he was a great player in Boston. Considered one of the greatest players in the history of the sport, he had an image of a quiet and dignified man, not completely comfortable in the spotlight and would give much more credit to his teammates.
When he decided to write his memoir in 2013, the words he used solidified that reputation. He tries to write as much about others as he does about himself in the book. He states that he wrote the book because he had “something to share” to other parents and grandchildren. He stays away from gossip (his section on colorful Bruins teammate Derek Sanderson was very short) or harsh criticism. The latter was very evident with his section on Alan Eagleson, the disgraced agent who represented Orr and many other hockey players while serving as the president of the NHL players’ union. Even though it is very evident that Orr still harbors bitterness to this day about the man who led him astray financially, he still writes some positive things about Eagleson as well.
That was probably the biggest surprise in the book as most of the book reads like the typical sports memoir, with praise for his parents, fond memories of playing hockey on the lake as a kid, remembering his career in Juniors where he was discovered at 15 by the Bruins and signed as a teenager. Then we hear stories about his time with the Bruins and their talented teams – of course in true Orr style, he is humble about this and writes more about his teammates than himself. He also writes more about his foundation to make hockey for children better and even some thoughts on today’s professional game.
The best writing in this part of the book for me was when he talked about his departure from Boston to the Chicago Blackhawks, a move he was making because he felt that the Bruins did not want him any longer since his knees were giving him much pain. This is also addressed in his chapter on Eagleson. While he played so few games in Chicago, even there he shows his humility by wanting to do something for the franchise instead of just collecting a paycheck for not playing with his balky knees.
This book is an easy read, one that will be completed fairly quickly and will be enjoyed by any hockey fan of any level. This is mainly because even if a fan is too young to have seen Orr play, he or she knows about the legendary defenseman and his story is one that should be shared with all fans.
http://sportsbookguy.blogspot.com/201...
When he decided to write his memoir in 2013, the words he used solidified that reputation. He tries to write as much about others as he does about himself in the book. He states that he wrote the book because he had “something to share” to other parents and grandchildren. He stays away from gossip (his section on colorful Bruins teammate Derek Sanderson was very short) or harsh criticism. The latter was very evident with his section on Alan Eagleson, the disgraced agent who represented Orr and many other hockey players while serving as the president of the NHL players’ union. Even though it is very evident that Orr still harbors bitterness to this day about the man who led him astray financially, he still writes some positive things about Eagleson as well.
That was probably the biggest surprise in the book as most of the book reads like the typical sports memoir, with praise for his parents, fond memories of playing hockey on the lake as a kid, remembering his career in Juniors where he was discovered at 15 by the Bruins and signed as a teenager. Then we hear stories about his time with the Bruins and their talented teams – of course in true Orr style, he is humble about this and writes more about his teammates than himself. He also writes more about his foundation to make hockey for children better and even some thoughts on today’s professional game.
The best writing in this part of the book for me was when he talked about his departure from Boston to the Chicago Blackhawks, a move he was making because he felt that the Bruins did not want him any longer since his knees were giving him much pain. This is also addressed in his chapter on Eagleson. While he played so few games in Chicago, even there he shows his humility by wanting to do something for the franchise instead of just collecting a paycheck for not playing with his balky knees.
This book is an easy read, one that will be completed fairly quickly and will be enjoyed by any hockey fan of any level. This is mainly because even if a fan is too young to have seen Orr play, he or she knows about the legendary defenseman and his story is one that should be shared with all fans.
http://sportsbookguy.blogspot.com/201...
March 6, 2022
Some of you who know my favourite hockey team may be surprised to see me reading a book by probably the greatest player to suit up for the hated Boston Bruins! But as a defenceman myself and a hockey/sports history buff, I thought it might be good to read what probably the best offensive defenceman has to say about hockey and life in general.
Overall, Bobby Orr's story is not the flashiest or most exciting, he is a pretty low drama type of person which is good personally but doesn't make a very enthralling story. I was interested to learn that he only suited up for Canada once in his career despite being probably the best player or at least defenceman of his era and another interesting section was when he went into detail about how he was kind of screwed financially by his agent who turned out to be defrauding his clients and went to jail despite being part of the Hockey Hall of Fame as a builder.
Bobby definitely shows age a bit in the book, despite being fairly revolutionary for his time, he is still an old-school hockey guy. Although he does through in some good nuggets of wisdom, throughout most of the book it is like speaking with a grandpa about the state of hockey (which of course, he is).
It was also pretty funny how he wrote an entire chapter dedicated to Don Cherry who has since become a bit of an outsider in the hockey world, I wonder if they are still as close as they were when this book was released?
Overall fairly enjoyable, Bobby does a fairly good job writing despite not being a professional writer himself. I'm glad to have finally gotten around to reading this one after receiving it as a Christmas gift a long time ago.
Overall, Bobby Orr's story is not the flashiest or most exciting, he is a pretty low drama type of person which is good personally but doesn't make a very enthralling story. I was interested to learn that he only suited up for Canada once in his career despite being probably the best player or at least defenceman of his era and another interesting section was when he went into detail about how he was kind of screwed financially by his agent who turned out to be defrauding his clients and went to jail despite being part of the Hockey Hall of Fame as a builder.
Bobby definitely shows age a bit in the book, despite being fairly revolutionary for his time, he is still an old-school hockey guy. Although he does through in some good nuggets of wisdom, throughout most of the book it is like speaking with a grandpa about the state of hockey (which of course, he is).
It was also pretty funny how he wrote an entire chapter dedicated to Don Cherry who has since become a bit of an outsider in the hockey world, I wonder if they are still as close as they were when this book was released?
Overall fairly enjoyable, Bobby does a fairly good job writing despite not being a professional writer himself. I'm glad to have finally gotten around to reading this one after receiving it as a Christmas gift a long time ago.
November 28, 2017
If you are a fan of the sport of hockey, this is an excellent read.
August 30, 2014
Really enjoy the wisdom, the gentlemanlyness and the voice in this book. Orr is so nice he can't even rip on Eagleson who stole millions from him. An amazing player but more of an amazing person. There are many coaches who could do well to follow some of his wisdom no matter what sport they coach.
One of the greatest sports figures of all time at last breaks his silence in a memoir as unique as the man himself.
Number 4. It is just about the most common number in hockey, but invoke that number and you can only be talking about one player -- the man often referred to as the greatest ever to play the game: Bobby Orr. From 1966 through the mid-70s he could change a game just by stepping on the ice. Orr could do things that others simply couldn’t, and while teammates and opponents alike scrambled to keep up, at times they could do little more than stop and watch. Many of his records still stand today and he remains the gold standard by which all other players are judged. Mention his name to any hockey fan – or to anyone in New England – and a look of awe will appear. But skill on the ice is only a part of his story. All of the trophies, records, and press clippings leave unsaid as much about the man as they reveal. They tell us what Orr did, but don’t tell us what inspired him, who taught him, or what he learned along the way. They don’t tell what it was like for a shy small-town kid to become one of the most celebrated athletes in the history of the game, all the while in the full glare of the media. They don’t tell us what it was like when the agent he regarded as his brother betrayed him and left him in financial ruin, at the same time his battered knee left him unable to play the game he himself had redefined only a few seasons earlier. They don’t tell about the players and people he learned to most admire along the way. They don’t tell what he thinks of the game of hockey today.
Orr himself has never put all this into words, until now. After decades of refusing to speak of his past in articles or “authorized” biographies, he finally tells his story, because he has something to share: “I am a parent and a grandparent and I believe that I have lessons worth passing along.” In the end, this is not just a book about hockey. The most meaningful biographies and memoirs rise above the careers out of which they grew. Bobby Orr’s life goes far deeper than Stanley Cup rings, trophies and recognitions. His story is not only about the game, but also the age in which it was played. It’s the story of a small-town kid who came to define its highs and lows, and inevitably it is a story of the lessons he learned along the way.
One of the greatest sports figures of all time at last breaks his silence in a memoir as unique as the man himself.
Number 4. It is just about the most common number in hockey, but invoke that number and you can only be talking about one player -- the man often referred to as the greatest ever to play the game: Bobby Orr. From 1966 through the mid-70s he could change a game just by stepping on the ice. Orr could do things that others simply couldn’t, and while teammates and opponents alike scrambled to keep up, at times they could do little more than stop and watch. Many of his records still stand today and he remains the gold standard by which all other players are judged. Mention his name to any hockey fan – or to anyone in New England – and a look of awe will appear. But skill on the ice is only a part of his story. All of the trophies, records, and press clippings leave unsaid as much about the man as they reveal. They tell us what Orr did, but don’t tell us what inspired him, who taught him, or what he learned along the way. They don’t tell what it was like for a shy small-town kid to become one of the most celebrated athletes in the history of the game, all the while in the full glare of the media. They don’t tell us what it was like when the agent he regarded as his brother betrayed him and left him in financial ruin, at the same time his battered knee left him unable to play the game he himself had redefined only a few seasons earlier. They don’t tell about the players and people he learned to most admire along the way. They don’t tell what he thinks of the game of hockey today.
Orr himself has never put all this into words, until now. After decades of refusing to speak of his past in articles or “authorized” biographies, he finally tells his story, because he has something to share: “I am a parent and a grandparent and I believe that I have lessons worth passing along.” In the end, this is not just a book about hockey. The most meaningful biographies and memoirs rise above the careers out of which they grew. Bobby Orr’s life goes far deeper than Stanley Cup rings, trophies and recognitions. His story is not only about the game, but also the age in which it was played. It’s the story of a small-town kid who came to define its highs and lows, and inevitably it is a story of the lessons he learned along the way.
November 26, 2013
In addition to the skills that made Bobby Orr one of the greatest hockey players ever to play the game, Orr was also known to be a soft-spoken, modest, and private individual off the ice. In Orr: My Story, readers learn more about the private individual with less details added to what is already known about the famous hockey player.
Much of this book comprises an extended thank-you letter to the people who coached him, drove him to practice ,and instilled life lessons along the way. From Parry Sound to Oshawa to Boston and beyond, Orr recounts the good people who helped him, with anecdotes and stories to illustrate his focus of keeping a positive attitude and strong work ethic. Any unsavory details are only briefly mentioned (e.g. sibling rivalry in the Orr household, partying by Bruins teammates). And Orr's greatest career highlights, such as his 1970 Stanley Cup winning goals, are portrayed as group efforts that deserve wider credit. In thanking the many people who pushed him to become a better person and player, he continually downplays his own efforts and skills. A lone exception is the chapter devoted to Alan Eagleson, the disgraced and convicted player agent who manipulated the minds and earnings of countless individuals, including Orr -- at least in one chapter Orr is able to portray a less rosy picture of his career. It is also one of the most gripping chapters in the book.
At times, the nostalgia for the good ol' days when kids could be left to their own devices and players policed themselves on the ice bogs down the narrative. Orr is content to leave the reader thinking that everything learned in life can be traced back to a game of shinny on a frozen pond. If you're looking for the Big, Bad, Bruins - look elsewhere. In My Story, Bobby Orr makes the most of his opportunity to tell the quiet and modest side of his career.
Much of this book comprises an extended thank-you letter to the people who coached him, drove him to practice ,and instilled life lessons along the way. From Parry Sound to Oshawa to Boston and beyond, Orr recounts the good people who helped him, with anecdotes and stories to illustrate his focus of keeping a positive attitude and strong work ethic. Any unsavory details are only briefly mentioned (e.g. sibling rivalry in the Orr household, partying by Bruins teammates). And Orr's greatest career highlights, such as his 1970 Stanley Cup winning goals, are portrayed as group efforts that deserve wider credit. In thanking the many people who pushed him to become a better person and player, he continually downplays his own efforts and skills. A lone exception is the chapter devoted to Alan Eagleson, the disgraced and convicted player agent who manipulated the minds and earnings of countless individuals, including Orr -- at least in one chapter Orr is able to portray a less rosy picture of his career. It is also one of the most gripping chapters in the book.
At times, the nostalgia for the good ol' days when kids could be left to their own devices and players policed themselves on the ice bogs down the narrative. Orr is content to leave the reader thinking that everything learned in life can be traced back to a game of shinny on a frozen pond. If you're looking for the Big, Bad, Bruins - look elsewhere. In My Story, Bobby Orr makes the most of his opportunity to tell the quiet and modest side of his career.
February 11, 2014
"Humble" is not a word generally used to describe hockey players, but it describes Bobby Orr to a tee. I actually live in the area where Orr played his junior hockey, I hold seasons tickets with that same club, and I have had the privilege of meeting the man himself on several occasions. The way he tells his story fits well with what I've seen myself and heard from others. In a word, it's authentic.
What ends up being memorable in this book is not Orr's excellence at hockey - he is quick to give others credit for his success - but rather the emphasis he places on having fun and building personal character. These are values from a bygone era which have largely been lost in our modern obsession with stardom, and it's refreshing to hear a clarion call to sanity when we are bombarded by stories of bad behaviour, selfish and greedy players, and hockey parents going off the deep end.
I'm not generally a big fan of autobiographies. The most popular examples tend to be blatant attempts at whitewashing or premptively framing the discussion on thorny topics. Others are written by blowhards who crave the spotlight and spend endless pages recounting their glories. Bobby Orr didn't have any pressing issues to whitewash, he is too humble to trumpet his talent, and he states up front that he didn't feel anyone would be interested in his story. That lack of an agenda is what ends up makes the book such a compelling and fascinating read.
What ends up being memorable in this book is not Orr's excellence at hockey - he is quick to give others credit for his success - but rather the emphasis he places on having fun and building personal character. These are values from a bygone era which have largely been lost in our modern obsession with stardom, and it's refreshing to hear a clarion call to sanity when we are bombarded by stories of bad behaviour, selfish and greedy players, and hockey parents going off the deep end.
I'm not generally a big fan of autobiographies. The most popular examples tend to be blatant attempts at whitewashing or premptively framing the discussion on thorny topics. Others are written by blowhards who crave the spotlight and spend endless pages recounting their glories. Bobby Orr didn't have any pressing issues to whitewash, he is too humble to trumpet his talent, and he states up front that he didn't feel anyone would be interested in his story. That lack of an agenda is what ends up makes the book such a compelling and fascinating read.
March 11, 2016
I read the book Bobby Orr My Story. I really enjoyed the book because hockey is my favorite sport and Bobby is one of my idols. He's dominate presence on the ice and impact on the game has Inspired me. One thing I learned in the book that I didn't previously knew, is that once his career was over, which was cut short because of multiple knee Injuries Bobby then found out that he his agent had taken most of his money. I also loved hearing his personal story. Like the Boston Bruins signed him at the age of 14, and he wouldn't sign unless they agreed to paint his mother house. Overall, the book was very good and I really enjoyed it and would recommend it to any hockey and Bruins fans.
October 21, 2013
This is a great book. It reinforces the fact that Bobby Orr has stayed true to his roots his entire life and that is why generations of kids that never saw him play and why people who followed his career right from the beginning still love and admire him today. He was an ordinary boy from a small town who worked hard for his dream and made it come true with hard work, personal sacrifice and loyalty. He will always be one of my heros!
February 27, 2015
If you are a fan you have to read this. He is the consummate gentleman and he has some very good stories. The best part should be recommended reading for any parents of young hockey players - a list of things you'll have to do if you want to make it. It is not easy. I didn't agree with some of his viewpoints, especially the Don Cherry lovefest but I don't have to to think he was the most amazing hockey player that ever lived.
November 8, 2015
Bobby Orr shares the story of his youth, his passion for hockey from childhood, his journey from youth sports to the professional leagues, his thoughts on playing hockey as a child (parenting and/or coaching, rules of the game) and his thoughts on professional hockey as it has been played and is played today. Told without boasting and always respectful, this is an excellent read for the casual hockey fan as well as the most ardent.
November 4, 2016
An interesting and sometimes fun read. Those readers who are particularly fond of hearing stories that a famous athlete shares about his career won't be too disappointed. However, those who are expecting a full-fledged biography will be. Orr is simply too modest an individual to speak at length about his life.
March 20, 2017
I was hoping for something a little special out of the book but it was very bland. It was written not to step on any toes and didn't really reveal any extra about one of the greatest hockey players to ever play the game.
Quite frankly, it was a disappointing read.
Quite frankly, it was a disappointing read.
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June 1, 2017Orr: My Story is about one of the greatest hockey players to ever live and play, Bobby Orr. This novel goes deep into Orr's childhood and all the way to his retired life. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes hockey or sports, but it does feel a little long at times.
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