Maria Mankler debuts children's hockey book in Leksand

Librarian Maria Mankler has released her debut children's book, ‘Släpp sargen!’, inspired by the deep-rooted hockey culture in Leksand, Sweden. The story, aimed at children aged 9–12, follows an eleven-year-old boy named Mario who dreams of playing for the New York Islanders.

Beyond the sport itself, the book explores themes of friendship, doubt, and the courage to be oneself within a male-dominated athletic culture. Mankler noted that the idea originated in Mockfjärd when children expressed a desire for fun hockey-themed books. She is currently working on a second book in the series.