Originally from Saint John and now living in Fredericton, journalist Karissa Donkin is shining a light on women’s hockey with her new book Break Away.
Karissa Donkin’s new book Break Away takes readers inside the world of women’s hockey, a passion she first discovered cheering on the Saint John Flames with her grandfather at Harbour Station (TD Station). Growing up in the south end of the port city, Karissa spent countless hours cheering on the Flames. Those games, and the rituals around them, including listening on the radio when they couldn’t attend in person - to watching Hockey Night in Canada at home, sparked her love of hockey.
“My grandfather passed away in 2007. He was always reading hockey books, but they were all about men, written by men,” Karissa said. “I think he'd love reading this book with a Leafs game on in the background and a cup of tea.”
Karissa’s career as a journalist, now with CBC Sports, began in Saint John but took her across the country, covering everything from investigative stories to national events. During the pandemic, she needed a creative escape, a break from heavy reporting. That’s when she started Break Away, a book celebrating the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), highlighting players’ journeys - including New Brunswickers Sarah Bujold and Marlène Boissonnault - and the inequities women face in hockey.
She’s bringing her story back home with a launch event Thursday, October 9th, at The Write Cup. Expect a lively conversation with Julia Wright, stories about Saint John’s south end, and a chance to grab a signed copy. For Karissa, it’s about connecting her hometown roots, her love of hockey, and the athletes making history in the game she adores.