In December 1957, Kenny Leishman came to Toronto from Winnipeg and robbed his first bank. By the time he disappeared in a plane crash over northern Ontario 22 years later, he was a legend.

Smooth talking, flashy, with a string of bank jobs to his credit, Leishman catapulted into the national spotlight--and into the hearts of millions of Canadians--by pulling off the biggest gold heist in the country's history. Canadians cheered on the man they affectionately dubbed The Flying Bandit. From coast to coast, in small towns and big cities, everyone wanted Leishman to get away with it. His status as a folk hero was assured.

Based on Leishman's private diaries, extensive research and personal interviews with family and friends, The Flying Bandit recreates the life and times of one of Canada's most flamboyant criminals.

HEATHER ROBERTSON is one of Canada's most accomplished and acclaimed authors. Her many books include Reservations Are for Indians, Grass Roots, A Terrible Beauty and Willie: A Romance. Born in Winnipeg, she has long lived in Toronto.

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"A fascinating study of a Canadian criminal who was at once a loser and a legend."

Ottawa Citizen