Recommended reading

Was very pleased to find a package in my Globe mailbox yesterday containing Open Ice: Reflections of a Hockey Life. It's author Jack Falla's companion book to Home Ice, his collection of essays revolving around his backyard rink in Natick, Mass.

Jack is a good friend and my former professor at Boston University, which hardly makes me an objective reader. But for those who enjoyed Home Ice, this latest book is an absolute must-read for non-hockey fans and puckheads alike. Cracked the first few pages last night and am looking forward to reading the rest.

It's available online and at bookstores.