Hockey in the Wild is a charming and funny picture book from author Nicholas Oldland, part of the beloved Life in the Wild collection. The story follows a bear, moose, and beaver who are so eager for hockey season that they rush onto the ice before it’s safe—only to learn the hard way that patience matters. While waiting for the lake to freeze properly, the trio fills their time with cozy and silly activities like competitive napping, karaoke, and comfort food, building anticipation for the big day.
Blending gentle humor with meaningful lessons, the book introduces themes of perseverance, winter safety, and the importance of staying active outdoors. Oldland’s expressive illustrations and playful storytelling make it ideal for read-aloud time, while visual jokes keep even pre-readers engaged. Kids who love hockey will relate instantly, but any child who has struggled to wait for something exciting will recognize themselves in the characters.