The Rocket: A Cultural History of Maurice Richard

About this book

In his 18 years with the Montral Canadiens (19421960) Maurice Richards story appeared everywhere from novels to songs and his name marked streets and public squares. In this entertaining and lavishly illustrated biography cultural historian Benot Melanon traces the Rockets elevation from mortal to myth. The books opening pages revisit Richards greatest feats and most memorable moments from his 1955 suspension for hitting a referee to his standoff with NHL president Clarence Campbell that became a symbol of Quebec nationalism. Melanon then explores the Rockets legend and mystique his burning eyes wild temper physical strength and sudden tendency to break down in tears. The Rocket draws on a rich mix of print sources photos and illustrations to show how sportswriters artists playwrights politicians and ordinary citizens all played a part in immortalizing this extraordinary man and athlete.