With the world’s Winter Games spotlight turning to Italy, there’s no better time to lean into the thrill of competition, icy arenas, and snow-covered slopes. From figure skating and hockey to skiing and imaginative winter challenges, these stories capture the energy of global winter sports while celebrating what really matters most.
Whether your reader is just discovering teamwork or navigating big dreams and even bigger setbacks, these books highlight themes of bravery, perseverance, determination, sportsmanship, and self-worth on and off the ice. Get in the competitive spirit and explore these winter sports–inspired reads for kids and teens.
Books for Kids
Max and Marla by Alexandra Boiger
Max and Marla learn that teamwork and trust are just as important as winning when their icy adventure doesn’t go as planned. A gentle story about friendship and cooperation.
Get on the Ice, Mo! by David Adler
Mo wants to play hockey, but learning something new isn’t easy. This encouraging story shows how practice and confidence can help overcome fear.
Yasmin the Ice Skater by Saadia Faruqi
Yasmin faces nerves before a big skating performance and learns that believing in herself matters more than being perfect. A relatable story about courage and self-confidence.
Tacky and the Winter Games by Helen Lester
Tacky the penguin competes in a series of winter challenges where good sportsmanship outshines medals. A humorous reminder that kindness always wins.
Goodnight, Hockey Fans by Andrew Larsen
This cozy bedtime book celebrates the excitement of a hockey game winding down for fans of all ages. Perfect for little sports lovers at the end of a busy day.
I’m Cool! by Kate McMullan
A Zamboni cleans the ice, uses cutaway illustrations to show its inner workings. A fun and educational read for hockey fans.
Game of Gnomes by Kirsten Mayer
Two teams of gnomes face off in a playful winter competition that highlights teamwork and determination. Lighthearted and full of snowy fun.
Stronger Than She Thinks by Nancy Kerrigan
Olympic figure skater Nancy Kerrigan shares an inspiring message about resilience and inner strength. A powerful reminder that confidence is built one step at a time.
Books for Teens
On Thin Ice by Jessica Kim
A competitive figure skater navigates family expectations, rivalry, and self-discovery. This novel explores pressure, perseverance, and finding your own voice.
Skade and the Enchanted Snow by Joan Holub
Mythology and winter adventure collide in this fantasy featuring icy challenges and brave choices. Perfect for readers who like magic mixed with competition.
Breaking the Ice by Natalie Blitt
When a young skater’s plans don’t go as expected, she learns that personal growth can matter more than trophies. A heartfelt story about resilience.
Dreamer by Akim Aliu
Based on a true story, this memoir follows a young hockey player confronting racism while chasing his dreams. A powerful exploration of courage, identity, and determination.
Girl Overboard by Justina Chen
A competitive snowboarder faces personal and athletic challenges while discovering who she wants to be. A compelling story about ambition and balance.
Checked by Cynthia Kadohata
A middle-grade-to-teen crossover novel about hockey, grief, and growing up. This emotional story highlights teamwork, healing, and resilience.
Hockey Girl Loves Drama Boy by Faith Erin Hicks
Opposites attract in this graphic novel that blends sports, theater, and teen romance. A charming story about being yourself and supporting others’ passions.
Avalanche by Melinda Braun
A survival story set against a dangerous winter landscape that tests strength and determination. A gripping read about courage under pressure.
Looking for more winter sports reads? Librarians at Johnson County Library are always happy to help. Stop by a branch or visit the Library’s website to get personalized book recommendations and discover your next great read this season.
