HILLSIDE, Mich., July 15, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- Living at the turn of the 20th century was perhaps simpler than today, but life was still as complex. In the new novel If We Make It to Jericho (now available through 1stBooks), author T.F. Platt takes the reader back in time for a story of family, friends, villains and the hardship and humor they shared.
Platt opens his story in 1905. Clarence is a hard worker, yet his mind is distracted by the lovely presence of Clydis. He is in love with her, but her attitude towards him and the rest of the world bewilders Clarence. After they are married, Clydis waits at home for the arrival of their first child and ponders a future life for herself and her child, without Clarence.
After Edith is born, Clydis leaves, but soon finds herself living in danger, fearing her life and the life of her child. Trapped in Europe with her insane mother who has taken possession of Edith, Clydis tries to escape with her daughter, but fails. Furious, the older woman threatens to torture Edith to keep Clydis in line. One scream from her innocent child gives her enough proof.
A cast of colorful characters, including Native Americans, a peculiar preacher, a host of charming friends, cool grandparents and a stray dog, support Clarence in his efforts to recover his family. Meanwhile, Clydis longs to return with Edith safely to his loving arms. Following tortuous routes, they reunite at their home on Jericho.
Platt says he had his first success as a writer in elementary school, discovering he could entertain and hold people's attention with the short stories and skits he would write. The experience has stuck with him through high school, college and then high school teaching and 31 years as a college professor. As a professor, he published numerous articles in scientific journals. He also served for 11 years as national editor for Sigma Zetan, the annual periodical of national science honorary society. Platt also likes to fly, logging many hours piloting his Piper Cherokee. If We Make It to Jericho is his first book and the first in a series written in honor of his grandparents.
ABOUT 1STBOOKS
The oldest and most successful print-on-demand and eBook publishing company of its kind, 1stBooks was founded in 1997 and has helped more than 13,000 people worldwide realize their dreams of becoming published authors. For more information, visit www.1stBooks.com