06/09/2025
Penguin Random House Canada and McClelland & Stewart today join in mourning Ken Dryden, a cherished member of our publishing family, the Canadian literary community, and a celebrated figure in the world of sports and literature, who died yesterday at the age of 78. Ken Dryden’s remarkable journey from the ice rinks of the NHL to the hallowed halls of Penguin Random House Canada has left an indelible mark on both the sporting and cultural landscapes. 
Ken Dryden first captured the hearts of Canadians as a legendary goaltender for the Montreal Canadiens, where his skill and dedication led the team to six Stanley Cup victories. His contributions to the sport were recognized with his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame, solidifying his status as one of the greatest goaltenders in NHL history. 
Beyond his athletic prowess, Dryden was a gifted writer and thinker. His transition from sports to literature was seamless, as exemplified in his seminal work, The Game. Over the course of thirty-five years, Dryden published six bestselling books with McClelland & Stewart, including Home Game: Hockey and Life in Canada, The Series, Game Change, Home Game, Becoming Canada, and most recently, The Class.
As we celebrate Ken Dryden’s life, we remember him not only as a sports icon but as a cultural luminary whose words and ideas have enriched our understanding of the world. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of athletes, writers, and thinkers. We
are honoured to have been a part of Ken Dryden’s literary journey, and extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, readers, and all those who were touched by his extraordinary life and work.
