Who knew that paperwork could be so fascinating? In Written in Blue and White, author Greg Oliver explores the fascinating archives of Allan Stitt, one of hockey’s leading collectors, unearthing gem after gem that details the history of the Toronto Maple Leafs through the past century. Explore early contracts with players, and how the clauses evolved; read personal correspondence from Leaf players and management; find out what was behind Wally Stanowski’s 1945 fine for $100; see receipts from the 1935 Stanley Cup playoffs — and learn just how much oranges cost. Since documents can’t talk, Oliver seeks out the men behind the words, like former general managers Jim Gregory, Gerry McNamara, and Floyd Smith; players such as Ron Ellis, Dick Duff, and Darryl Sittler; and key behind-the-scenes people like trainers, agents, reporters, and publicists.

The documents that breathe life into Written in Blue and White are complemented by a wide variety of stunning and rare photos from the Hockey Hall of Fame archives, as well as sample contracts and historical pieces from the collection of Allan Stitt.