They Don't Play Hockey in Heaven

They Don't Play Hockey in Heaven chronicles Ken Baker's journey as a professional hockey goalie whose career was derailed by a brain tumor. The memoir follows his path from collegiate hockey star to his struggle with mysterious symptoms that affected his play and life. Baker recounts his experiences in the minor leagues and his eventual diagnosis with a rare tumor pressing on his pituitary gland. His story tracks both the medical battle and his determination to return to professional hockey after treatment. The narrative provides an inside look at professional hockey culture and the physical demands placed on athletes. Through medical appointments, surgeries, and rehabilitation, Baker maintains his focus on getting back on the ice. This memoir examines themes of resilience, identity, and redefining success in the face of life-altering circumstances. The intersection of professional sports, serious illness, and personal growth forms the foundation of this compelling account.

Readers connect with Ken Baker's personal journey as a goalie trying to return to professional hockey while dealing with a brain tumor. Many reviewers note the book's authentic depiction of minor league hockey culture and locker room dynamics. Readers appreciate: - Raw emotions and vulnerability in describing medical challenges - Details about day-to-day life in minor league hockey - The balance between hockey action and personal reflection Common criticisms: - Writing can be unpolished at times - Some sections feel repetitive - Hockey terminology may confuse non-fans Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (156 ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (48 ratings) "Felt like sitting with Ken and hearing his story firsthand," notes one Amazon reviewer. A Goodreads review states: "The medical portions were more compelling than the hockey sections." The book resonates particularly with readers who have faced health challenges or played competitive sports.

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🏒 Author Ken Baker underwent brain surgery to remove a tumor from his pituitary gland, which had been secretly suppressing his testosterone and preventing him from fully developing through puberty 🥅 After his surgery and recovery, Baker pursued his childhood dream of becoming a professional hockey goalie at age 31, playing for the Bakersfield Condors ⚡ The book's title comes from a near-death experience Baker had during his brain surgery, where he claims to have visited heaven and was disappointed to learn they didn't play hockey there 🌟 Prior to writing this memoir, Baker was an established entertainment journalist who worked for People magazine and hosted for E! News 🎯 The story has been optioned for a film adaptation, with the working title "The Late Bloomer," though the focus was shifted to emphasize the medical and romantic aspects rather than hockey