Crabtree Groundbreaker Biographies tell the stories of people from a variety of walks of life whose talent, courage, skill, and vision have inspired millions. These stories will fascinate readers with their in-depth portraits of people who have risen to the top of their fields, achieved excellence and recognition, and provided examples of achievements and character for people of all ages and backgrounds. Wayne Gretzky, known to millions of hockey fans as "The Great One," wasn't the biggest, fastest, or strongest hockey player ever, but he was without a doubt the best so far. When he retired from play in 1999, the NHL retired his jersey number, and he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame immediately, without the customary waiting period. Wayne's great talent was his uncanny ability to "read" the game and consistently make the right moves. From the time he was a little boy practicing on a rink in his backyard to the end of his record-breaking career, Wayne's life is an example of just how far hard work and smart thinking can take a kid from Brantford, Ontario. Book jacket.