I didn’t love the hockey references and in fact, my eyes may have glazed over at times (but I am admittedly not a sports girl!) – so I obviously didn’t read it from the fandom perspective. I did appreciate Domi’s transparency in sharing his journey to the NHL while attempting to balance Type 1 and celiac disease without giving up on his dreams. I couldn’t relate to all of the “perks” he has had in learning to manage his diagnosis, but I could relate to much of his experience and feelings. I recommend as inspiring non-fiction that encourages you to keep on going or for anyone interested in an accurately descriptive glimpse of what living with Type 1 can be like.

I received a complimentary copy of this book.

All Max Domi ever wanted was to play hockey, and fulfill his dream of playing in the NHL. From promising young player making his way up the ranks of minor hockey, to a diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes as a teenager, Domi, shares his story of following his dream, all while living with Type 1 diabetes. An inspirational narrative to encourage those who read it to never give up and always follow their dreams.

As a lover of books and the Montreal Canadiens, reading this book was a must for me! I knew only a little about Max as a player before he was traded to Montreal. And since his arrival here, have learned bits and pieces about his life outside of hockey. As a fan of the game, I enjoy getting to know players outside of hockey, and I commend Max for opening up about his life and journey. It was a quick and easy read from start to finish. I enjoyed getting to learn more about Max's life outside of hockey and everything he had to go through or change as a Type 1 diabetic to realize his ultimate dream. And everything he continues to have to do playing in the NHL to make sure he keeps his levels within the optimum range for him. Max gets real about how he wasn't always very good at being open about it, but this is his effort to raise awareness and show people there is nothing to be ashamed about. The story aspect is very well done! However, the writing in this book is very basic, so if you're expecting an amazingly crafted and written account, this isn't it.

I would definitely recommend this book to any hockey fan (particularly Habs fans), anyone with diabetes, and/or anyone looking for an inspirational account of achieving ones dreams in the face of adversity. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this book will go to JDRF, the leading global organization funding Type 1 diabetes research.

"Everyone talked about my diabetes like it was a struggle or a challenge, something that I suffered from. But I wasn't suffering. And the more I thought about it the more I saw my diabetes as a positive. I told myself that I had my diabetes to thank for my preparation and discipline; it was helping me to mature quicker than many of my friends. I realized those kinds of things would make me a better athlete. Being a diabetic was a part of who I was, but I would not let the disease define me. I would define the disease."

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. A special thank-you to NetGalley, and Simon & Schuster Canada for the opportunity to review.