The Boy in Number Four

PreS-Gr 3—Aimed at young readers, this picture book focuses on the early development of hockey great Bobby Orr's character and fortitude. Setting itself apart from most biographies, this rhyming homage to Orr focuses instead on the athlete's diligence and determination to play for a major team from a young age. Although the text is somewhat hampered by hackneyed inspirational phrases ("There were times when it was easy, and others that were tough, and moments when it seemed/it would be better to give up."), the illustrations, based on Orr's personal photographs, are lovely. Sharp drawings, rendered in colored pencil, are rich in tone, capturing the unique contours of the ice as well as the complexity of shadow throughout each panel. A full-page afterword by Orr encourages kids to be active, participating in whatever sport they love.