100 books like Queen of Ice, Queen of Shadows

By Raymond Strait, Leif Henie,

Here are 100 books that Queen of Ice, Queen of Shadows fans have personally recommended if you like Queen of Ice, Queen of Shadows. Shepherd is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of Zero Tollerance: An Intimate Memoir by the Man Who Revolutionized Figure Skating

Ryan Stevens Author Of Jackson Haines: The Skating King

From my list on figure skating biographies you'll ever read.

Why am I passionate about this?

I'm a Canadian author and figure skating historian. I have written about the sport's fascinating past for over a decade. My innate curiosity about skating history dates back to the days of BETA tapes and card catalogs. Long before YouTube and social media, the only insights we often had about skater's stories were small nuggets of information passed on in television broadcasts and magazines. Figure skating biographies are a rare treat, allowing us to really get to know the people behind the skating performances we love. I'm absolutely delighted to share with you a skating biography of my own - the true story of The Father of Figure Skating - Jackson Haines. 

Ryan's book list on figure skating biographies you'll ever read

Ryan Stevens Why did Ryan love this book?

It was one of Toller Cranston's performances that first inspired me to take up figure skating.
There was something so bold, expressive, and larger than life about his performances. Those qualities are all front and center in his biography Zero Tollerance. Toller was never afraid to speak his mind, shake the tree or let the truth get in the way of a good story... and this biography is resplendent with great stories, heart, and humour.

By Toller Cranston,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Zero Tollerance as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Toller Cranston is: six-time Canadian figure-skating champion, celebrity, costume designer, artist extraordinaire, broadcaster, choreographer of skating routines, raconteur, bon vivant, coach, world traveller, art collector, legend, and enigma. In 1976 he won Olympic bronze (so why did it feel like defeat?). This book tells the story of his life after those fateful games at Innsbruck.

The rise and fall of Toller’s first professional ice show is described in soul-searing detail. His subsequent triumphant tour of Europe as the Skater of the Century is recounted, in contrast, with wicked humour. There are vignettes here of his encounters with the rich and…


Book cover of Facing the Music: The Autobiography

Ryan Stevens Author Of Jackson Haines: The Skating King

From my list on figure skating biographies you'll ever read.

Why am I passionate about this?

I'm a Canadian author and figure skating historian. I have written about the sport's fascinating past for over a decade. My innate curiosity about skating history dates back to the days of BETA tapes and card catalogs. Long before YouTube and social media, the only insights we often had about skater's stories were small nuggets of information passed on in television broadcasts and magazines. Figure skating biographies are a rare treat, allowing us to really get to know the people behind the skating performances we love. I'm absolutely delighted to share with you a skating biography of my own - the true story of The Father of Figure Skating - Jackson Haines. 

Ryan's book list on figure skating biographies you'll ever read

Ryan Stevens Why did Ryan love this book?

I don't think there's a skating lover out there who wasn't absolutely transfixed by Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean's legendary performance to Ravel's "Bolero" at the 1984 Winter Olympics in Sarajevo.

Torvill and Dean were two remarkably innovative skaters who pushed the boundaries - and rules - of ice dancing to the limit. This wonderful biography peels back the layers of their story, revealing the fascinating tales of their working-class roots, the trials and tribulations of making it to the top echelon of their sport and the people who helped them in surprising ways along their path to success.

By Jayne Torvill, Christopher Dean,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Facing the Music as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

This biography of Torvill and Dean tells the story of their relationship on and off the ice. Their Olympic triumph of 1984 is recounted along with the disappointment of their comeback attempt in 1994 when they won the bronze medal at Lillehammer.


Book cover of Alone: The Triumph and Tragedy of John Curry

Ryan Stevens Author Of Jackson Haines: The Skating King

From my list on figure skating biographies you'll ever read.

Why am I passionate about this?

I'm a Canadian author and figure skating historian. I have written about the sport's fascinating past for over a decade. My innate curiosity about skating history dates back to the days of BETA tapes and card catalogs. Long before YouTube and social media, the only insights we often had about skater's stories were small nuggets of information passed on in television broadcasts and magazines. Figure skating biographies are a rare treat, allowing us to really get to know the people behind the skating performances we love. I'm absolutely delighted to share with you a skating biography of my own - the true story of The Father of Figure Skating - Jackson Haines. 

Ryan's book list on figure skating biographies you'll ever read

Ryan Stevens Why did Ryan love this book?

In contrast to Toller Cranston's avant-garde style, John Curry was the sport's answer to Vaslav Nijinsky.

Turning professional after winning the gold medal at the 1976 Winter Olympics in Innsbruck, John put together his own touring company of skaters. Working with renowned choreographers from the dance world, he brought ballet to life on the ice. However, John's life off the ice was far from idyllic.

He had a troubled relationship with his father, struggled financially at times, and faced a series of devastating personal challenges. This book presents the facts about John's life and lets the people in his orbit tell their stories candidly. The author succeeded in one of the most challenging aspects of writing any biography - showcasing the fact that all people are nuanced.

By Bill Jones,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Alone as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Winner of the Outstanding Sports Writing Award, Cross British Sports Book Awards 2015

Shortlisted for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year award.

One winter's night in 1976, over 20 million people in Britain watched John Curry skate to Olympic glory on an ice rink in Austria. Many millions more watched around the world. Overnight he became one of the most famous men on the planet. He was awarded the OBE. He was chosen as BBC Sports Personality of the Year.

Curry had changed ice skating from marginal sport to high art. And yet the man was - and…


Book cover of Beautiful on the Outside: A Memoir

Ryan Stevens Author Of Jackson Haines: The Skating King

From my list on figure skating biographies you'll ever read.

Why am I passionate about this?

I'm a Canadian author and figure skating historian. I have written about the sport's fascinating past for over a decade. My innate curiosity about skating history dates back to the days of BETA tapes and card catalogs. Long before YouTube and social media, the only insights we often had about skater's stories were small nuggets of information passed on in television broadcasts and magazines. Figure skating biographies are a rare treat, allowing us to really get to know the people behind the skating performances we love. I'm absolutely delighted to share with you a skating biography of my own - the true story of The Father of Figure Skating - Jackson Haines. 

Ryan's book list on figure skating biographies you'll ever read

Ryan Stevens Why did Ryan love this book?

I don't see how anyone couldn't love Adam Rippon. Not only is he a gorgeous skater... he has an absolutely killer sense of humour!

What is particularly refreshing about this particularly autobiography is that Adam doesn't take himself too seriously. He's not afraid to be matter-of-fact and have a laugh about some of the setbacks he faced during his skating career. If you're looking for a refreshing and fun skating memoir, this one is completely out of the box.

By Adam Rippon,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Beautiful on the Outside as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?


Former Olympic figure skater and self-professed America's Sweetheart Adam Rippon shares his underdog journey from beautiful mess to outrageous success in this hilarious, big-hearted memoir that the Washington Post calls "comedic gold."

Your mom probably told you it's what on the inside that counts. Well, then she was never a competitive figure skater. Olympic medalist Adam Rippon has been making it pretty for the judges even when, just below the surface, everything was an absolute mess. From traveling to practices on the Greyhound bus next to ex convicts to being so poor he could only afford to eat the free…


Book cover of Every Reason We Shouldn't

Katie Van Ark Author Of The Boy Next Door

From my list on figure skating that won’t make skaters cringe.

Why am I passionate about this?

My hometown didn’t have an ice rink until I was in high school, but that didn’t stop me from falling in love with figure skating. From making backyard rinks to coaching learn-to-skate, I did everything I could to spend more time on ice. I also voraciously devoured books with even a hint (like a frozen pond!) of figure skating. All too often, these attempts to spend more time in the skating world only resulted in frustration when authors messed up key details. This list includes my favorite books about skating that fellow figure skaters can enjoy without inaccuracies tripping up their extra ice time.

Katie's book list on figure skating that won’t make skaters cringe

Katie Van Ark Why did Katie love this book?

There are so many figure-skater-meets-hockey-player stories out there, and while I will always love The Cutting Edge, I adored how Sara Fujimura went for a new move with this novel by bringing in the world of speed skating. Olivia is the daughter of famous Olympians trying to figure out a normal teen life after her own skating falters. Her world collides with Jonah’s when he begins speed skating at her family’s struggling rink. A roller derby friend brings extra fun to this novel.

By Sara Fujimura,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Every Reason We Shouldn't as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 12, 13, 14, and 15.

What is this book about?

Every Reason We Shouldn't by Sara Fujimura is a charming multicultural romance perfect for the many fans of Jenny Han and Rainbow Rowell.

Warning: Contains family expectations, delightful banter, great romantic tension, skating (all kinds!), Korean pastries, and all the feels.

Sixteen-year-old figure skater Olivia Kennedy’s Olympic dreams have ended. She’s bitter, but enjoying life as a regular teenager instead of trying to live up to expectations of being the daughter of Olympians Michael Kennedy and Midori Nakashima...until Jonah Choi starts training at her family's struggling rink.

Jonah's driven, talented, going for the Olympics in speed skating, completely annoying… and…


Book cover of Life on the Edge

Alina Adams Author Of Figure Skating Mystery Series (5 Books in 1)

From my list on figure skating and it’s scandals.

Why am I passionate about this?

As a researcher, writer, and producer for ABC Sports, ESPN, NBC, and TNT, I first wrote two non-fiction books, Inside Figure Skating, and Sarah Hughes: Skating to the Stars (and this was before she won the Olympic Gold in 2002). With the Figure Skating Mystery series, I was finally able to tell all the juicy stories I couldn’t when I was working for television or writing non-fiction. It was very therapeutic. But I wasn’t just a writer of books about figure skating. I was a reader, too. I learned so much from the experts, especially those willing to admit how things really were, rather than how the sport would like to appear on the surface.

Alina's book list on figure skating and it’s scandals

Alina Adams Why did Alina love this book?

Everyone who watches figure skating has, at one time, 'shipped' a pair or ice dance couple, or one singles skater with another. It's almost impossible to watch attractive, passionate people fling their bodies at each other and act out dramatic, romantic scenarios and not imagine what it might be like if they were a couple off the ice, too. Life on the Edge is the first book in the ongoing Edge series which does exactly that - with details! And then keeps the story going!

By Jennifer Comeaux,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Life on the Edge as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 13, 14, 15, and 16.

What is this book about?

Nineteen-year-old Emily is new to pairs skating, but she and her partner Chris have a big dream-to be the first American team to win Olympic gold. Their young coach Sergei, who left Russia after a mysterious end to his skating career, believes they can break through and make history.

Emily and Chris are on track to be top contenders at the Winter Games. But when forbidden feelings spark between Emily and Sergei, broken trust and an unexpected enemy threaten to derail Emily's dreams of gold.


Book cover of Wanted: One Perfect Boy

Katie Van Ark Author Of The Boy Next Door

From my list on figure skating that won’t make skaters cringe.

Why am I passionate about this?

My hometown didn’t have an ice rink until I was in high school, but that didn’t stop me from falling in love with figure skating. From making backyard rinks to coaching learn-to-skate, I did everything I could to spend more time on ice. I also voraciously devoured books with even a hint (like a frozen pond!) of figure skating. All too often, these attempts to spend more time in the skating world only resulted in frustration when authors messed up key details. This list includes my favorite books about skating that fellow figure skaters can enjoy without inaccuracies tripping up their extra ice time.

Katie's book list on figure skating that won’t make skaters cringe

Katie Van Ark Why did Katie love this book?

Wanted: One Perfect Boy is just one of the fantastic titles in the Silver Blades series by Melissa Lowell. This series, published during the 1990s heyday of skating, leans toward the tween crowd but is a great sentimental binge read. This particular title is about a pair partnership breakup, no romance involved, but still delivers all the feels in Nikki’s search for a new partner. 

By Melissa Lowell,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Wanted as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 9, 10, 11, and 12.

What is this book about?

Book by Lowell, Melissa


Book cover of Skating Forward: Celebrating 10 Years of Figure Skating Stories

Judy Lipson Author Of Celebration of Sisters: It Is Never Too Late To Grieve

From my list on sibling loss, love, and hope.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have been asked for decades to share my story. Who would want to hear my story? When we established the fund in memory of beloved sisters Margie and Jane, the doctor connected to the fund told me to write about my sisters so others would know them. After thirty years of suppressing my grief, writing became a venue to let the walls down and let my feelings out and be compassionate to myself and others in their grief no matter the time. Grief is a difficult subject and I hope in telling my story another individual will not be alone in their grief.

Judy's book list on sibling loss, love, and hope

Judy Lipson Why did Judy love this book?

2021 was a pivotal year for me. I turned sixty-five, my ice skating fundraiser Celebration of Sisters to honor my beloved sisters marked its tenth year, and my memoir was published. Skating is a sport my sisters and I shared and brought me full circle back to my sisters. Joanne and I met at an Adult Skating Camp in 2011. The Skating Forward series, tells stories of skaters of all levels from novice to Olympic Champions, all disciplines, all ages solidifying the meaning of figure skating in their lives. I am honored to be a participant in this milestone book due to the impact skating had on my life. On the ice I feel joy, peace, and each of my sisters on my shoulder as the breeze flows through my hair.

By Joanne Vassallo Jamrosz,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Skating Forward as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Ten Years of Skating Forward. Come Celebrate with us as we reach a milestone. Visit with some old friends, and meet many new friends. All will be inspired by their very special stories as they keep skating forward.

“Just as we are the purveyors of the history of skating through movement, Joanne keeps that history through words. Over the last 10 years, she has compiled a treasure trove of literature detailing unique and incredible stories of skaters from an array of eras. This book is a love letter to the specialty of our sport and to the many years that…


Book cover of Inside Edge: A Revealing Journey into the Secret World of Figure Skating

Alina Adams Author Of Figure Skating Mystery Series (5 Books in 1)

From my list on figure skating and it’s scandals.

Why am I passionate about this?

As a researcher, writer, and producer for ABC Sports, ESPN, NBC, and TNT, I first wrote two non-fiction books, Inside Figure Skating, and Sarah Hughes: Skating to the Stars (and this was before she won the Olympic Gold in 2002). With the Figure Skating Mystery series, I was finally able to tell all the juicy stories I couldn’t when I was working for television or writing non-fiction. It was very therapeutic. But I wasn’t just a writer of books about figure skating. I was a reader, too. I learned so much from the experts, especially those willing to admit how things really were, rather than how the sport would like to appear on the surface.

Alina's book list on figure skating and it’s scandals

Alina Adams Why did Alina love this book?

Brennan covered multiple different sports before turning her focus to figure skating. She came not as a fan, but as a reporter, which made Inside Edge a grittier and less insular take than usual. Yes, there are some technical and factual mistakes, as well as some wild leaps of logic. But this is the tough love book figure skating - and its fans - needed.

By Christine Brennan,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Inside Edge as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Stating that figure skating is as brutal and competitive as any athletic discipline, a reporter examines today's big stars, from Oksana Baiul to Elvis Stojko, and reveals the dark side of the sport. 50,000 first printing. Tour.


Book cover of Ana on the Edge

Caroline Huntoon Author Of Skating on Mars

From my list on best sports books that center queer youth.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m an accidental sports writer. While I played a few sports as a child and went as Sporty Spice for one ill-advised Halloween, I didn’t grow up on a steady diet of sports stories. I just didn’t get it. Sure, I heard stories of triumphant soccer seasons and rag-tag baseball teams, but they didn’t capture my interest. But then I grew up… and books became more diverse. I started revisiting sports novels after writing my debut novel. Seeing authors use sports as a way to explore queerness has changed my understanding of sports stories and given me a new appreciation for the genre. I can’t get enough!

Caroline's book list on best sports books that center queer youth

Caroline Huntoon Why did Caroline love this book?

This was the first published book I read with a nonbinary main character. That alone makes it one of the most personally important books I have ever read. The fact that I encountered it just after writing my own novel about a nonbinary figure skater made this beautiful book hit even harder.

It showed me that even though two books may have the same hook and some of the same basic ingredients, the execution can be diverse and take those ingredients in directions you never expected. It sparkles, both in its descriptions of figure skating and in its nuanced and honest exploration of identity. It also makes for an excellent read-aloud book.

By A.J. Sass,

Why should I read it?

3 authors picked Ana on the Edge as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 8, 9, 10, and 11.

What is this book about?

Twelve-year-old Ana-Marie Jin, the reigning US Juvenile figure skating champion, is not a frilly dress kind of kid. So, when Ana learns that next season's program will be princess themed, doubt forms fast. Still, Ana tries to focus on training and putting together a stellar routine worthy of national success.

Once Ana meets Hayden, a transgender boy new to the rink, thoughts about the princess program and gender identity begin to take center stage. And when Hayden mistakes Ana for a boy, Ana doesn't correct him and finds comfort in this boyish identity when he's around. As their friendship develops,…


5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in figure skating, alcoholism, and the Olympics?

Figure Skating 18 books
Alcoholism 108 books
The Olympics 37 books