The Big 50: Detroit Red Wings Paperback – October 13, 2020

Helene St. James is a superb hockey columnist for the Detroit Free Press. She brings that level of excellence to this obviously lovingly created book about the Red Wings. The magnificent historian, Barbara Tuchman, was once asked how to teach history. Her reply was, “Tell stories.” Ms St. James has done that in spades in this sublimely interesting factual and anecdotal history of the Wings. Any hockey fan, not just a Red Wing fan, will thoroughly enjoy this book.

I absolutely loved this. I’m a huge Wings fan so I knew some of the more current stuff, but there’s so much detail, and I loved reading about Gordie Howe and Ted Lindsay and all those guys from the 50s. Lots of funny stories, especially about the Russians. Had no idea what a rags-to-riches story Ilitch was. This is a must-have for any Wings fan. Going to make a great gift for the holidays.

I’m a Red Wings fan in Colorado Avalanche territory. This book is awesome. It’s loaded with great stories, tons of information and insight. Lots of fun anecdotes. Can really tell the author has a passion for hockey. Loved reading about the Russian Five, all the Swedes, and of course The Captain and Mr. Hockey!! Going to get a copy to give as a Christmas present to my neighbor who is from Michigan.

Great book for Red Wing fans. I would have given it five stars. Throughout the book, anytime numbers are used, i.e. year, goals, assists etc., they appear hand-written or another language. Contacted the publisher and Amazon. So far no resolution. Sorry for the author, because otherwise a great read for any hockey fan.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It brought back memories for this long time fan that made me smile. My only disappointment is that in the Kindle version I have places where stats and dates are supposed to be were never filled in. That needs to be corrected. Otherwise a fun read.

Not much that I didn’t know, being a life long Red Wings fan. Still, very nostalgic read.

This was a thoroughly enjoyable read, largely due to the great writing and great stories! The writer’s passion for her work really shines through, and takes the reader along for both the highs and the lows experienced by the Red Wings since their beginning. There are so many hilarious as well as touching stories! Would definitely recommend for any Red Wings fans and hockey fans in general.

Fabulous book! 5 ⭐️!! My favorite chapter was the story of Helen’s torrid love affair with both Paul Woods and Peter Klima in 1988. Meow.