Cracking the Ice

Hendrickson, Dave. Cracking the Ice. Lodi: West Side Books, 2011. Print. ISBN 978-1-934813-55-3. Hardcover. $16.95 USD.

 

Available Formats: Hardcover.

Annotation: The year is 1968 and Jesse Stackhouse has just been given a full scholarship to play hockey at an elite prep school. Jesse is thrilled about the opportunities this school will provide. However, when Jesse arrives at the all-white academy, he is subjected to vicious racism from his coach and teammates because he is African American.

Book Talk: Wrap Back to the Title Technique 

Teenager Jesse Stackhouse, a talented hockey player, has been given a full scholarship to play on an all-star team at an exclusive prep school. Elated, Jesse knows this opportunity will lead to a bright future. One with Ivy League colleges and a shot at the NHL. Sounds like a dream come true right?

Unfortunately, when Jesse arrives at the all-white academy his dreams turn into nightmares. As a black male during the turbulent era of the Civil Rights Movement, Jesse is subjected to vicious racism from his coach and teammates. He is forced to fight for respect and his rightful place on the team. However, the constant brutal attacks begin to wear on Jesse. Alone and scared, he must make a difficult decision; stay and endure the torment or return home with less opportunities.

Follow the courageous Jesse on his difficult journey to learn if he fulfills his dreams in Cracking the Ice.

Awards and Honors:

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(Image courtesy of BCLS)

Listen to some of the songs that inspired Jesse in Cracking the Ice.

Respect by Aretha Franklin

Say it Loud, I'm Black and I'm Proud by James Brown

Additional Author Information:

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Follow Dave Hendrickson on Twitter @DHWriter.