Former editor releases hockey novel, "Penetangore Showdown"

Eric Howald (right) of Kincardine has released “Penetangore Showdown,” his third book and first work of fiction.

The novel is aimed at youth, ages 10-14, but will be enjoyed by anybody who enjoys hockey, or lives in a small town.

The book chronicles a few weeks in the life of a collection of peewee-aged hockey players in the fictional town of Penetangore.

After the local rural league team, with an unlikely coach, defeats the town team, the Selects, minor hockey approves a best-of-three series to determine which team will represent Penetangore in the county’s top league and get the chance to represent Penetangore in the Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) playoffs.

The rural league team is a lovable bunch, and it is hard not to root for Jamie, Pete and their friends as they take on the Selects.

Howald, who was the editor and publisher of the Kincardine Independent from 1975-2011, originally wrote the novel roughly 30 years ago while he was coaching peewee local league hockey for the Kincardine Minor Hockey Association.

He said when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, he stumbled across an original printed copy of the novel. He decided to re-write and update the work of young adult fiction, and added some new characters along the way.

“Hopefully, it doesn’t take me as long to get my next one finished,” he said, with a laugh.

Howald has released two other books in recent years, both collections of his columns from his time as editor of The Independent.

“Penetangore Showdown” would make an excellent Christmas present for any young hockey player, or anyone who enjoys a good underdog story.

The book costs $11.95, and is available at Fincher’s and the Kincardine Independent office, in downtown Kincardine.