Sheldon Cohen Books

In the days of Roch’s childhood, winters in the village of Ste. Justine were long. Life centered around school, church, and the hockey rink, and every boy’s hero was Montreal Canadiens hockey legend Maurice Richard. Everyone wore Richard’s number 9. They laced their skates like Richard. They even wore their hair like Richard. When Roch outgrows his cherished Canadiens sweater, his mother writes away for a new one. Much to Roch’s horror, he is sent the blue and white sweater of the rival Toronto Maple Leafs, dreaded and hated foes to his beloved team. How can Roch face the other kids at the rink?

Set against the backdrop of World War II, this narrative explores the Jewish experience through the lens of a young protagonist. It delves into the impact of Adolph Hitler's regime and the resilience of partisans fighting against oppression. The story intertwines themes of survival, courage, and the quest for freedom, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of those who resisted tyranny. Through personal journeys and historical events, it offers a poignant reflection on a tumultuous period in history.