From the Rink too Romantasy: How “Fourth Wing” is Captivating NHL Players
The world of professional hockey might seem a universe away from the fantastical realms of dragons and magic. Yet, a surprising trend is sweeping through NHL locker rooms: players are getting hooked on Rebecca Yarros’s wildly popular “Fourth Wing” series. This isn’t just a casual read; its sparking book discussions, audiobook binges, and even jersey-signing requests.
So, what’s driving this unexpected literary craze among elite athletes? And why is this particular blend of romance and fantasy resonating with a demographic you might not expect? Let’s dive in.
The ”Fourth Wing” Effect: A Team-Wide Phenomenon
The buzz began organically within the New York Islanders organization. Several players discovered the book around the same time, quickly forming an informal book club. New York Islanders forward Brock Nelson explains,”There were probably six or seven of us that all got into it around the same month or two months…we were all kind of reading them together.”
Nelson’s wife also became a fan, devouring the series. He describes the book as a compelling “Harry Potter-Game of Thrones combo,” noting its easy readability and immersive quality. It’s a sentiment echoed by many – “Fourth Wing” isn’t just *a* book, it’s an experience.
Beyond the Islanders: The Avalanche Embrace the Series
The enthusiasm isn’t limited to one team. Colorado avalanche players are also embracing the “romantasy” genre. Goaltender Pavel Francouz (affectionately known as Wedgewood) discovered the series through a team Instagram post.
“I saw that the team had posted about it, and I commented on Instagram as kind of a subtle joke,” Wedgewood said. “A bunch of people said I needed to read it, so I decided I had some homework to do.”
He tackled the frist book as an audiobook during a lengthy 17-hour road trip, finishing it in just two days. Now, he’s immersed in the sequel, “Iron Flame.” Wedgewood highlights the descriptive writing and immersive storytelling, admitting he wasn’t quite prepared for the book’s romantic elements.
From Casual Readers to Avid Fans
For some players, “Fourth Wing” has ignited a newfound passion for reading. Nelson admits he and his wife weren’t avid readers before, but the series changed that. He’s now exploring other sci-fi/fantasy series, while his wife is on track to read 30 books this year.
This demonstrates the power of a captivating story to transform habits and open doors to new worlds. It’s a reminder that reading isn’t just an academic pursuit; it’s a source of entertainment, escape, and personal growth.
A Veteran Reader & A Dragon Rider’s Dream
Brent Burns, a veteran player with the Avalanche, already had a history of book clubs during his time with the San Jose Sharks. He’s a dedicated follower of Yarros on Instagram and, along with his wife, is working through the series.
Burns embodies the spirit of the “Fourth Wing” universe. “I would love to be a dragon rider,” he says enthusiastically. He even plans to have Yarros sign his warm-up jersey, under strict instructions from his wife.
Why This Matters: The Power of Shared Experiences
The NHL players’ embrace of “Fourth Wing” highlights a broader trend: the growing popularity of “romantasy” and the power of shared experiences. It’s a reminder that even in the high-pressure world of professional sports, athletes are still people with diverse interests and a desire for connection.
* Breaking Stereotypes: This trend challenges the stereotype of athletes as solely focused on physical pursuits.
* Community Building: The shared reading experience fosters camaraderie and conversation within teams.
* Expanding Horizons: It introduces players to a genre they might not have otherwise explored.
Ultimately, the “Fourth Wing” phenomenon in the NHL is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. it’s a captivating series that’s transcending boundaries and bringing people together,one dragon ride at a time.
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