CONVENT STATION, N.J., June 13, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- The compelling tale of climbing boys in 19th century London comes alive in Stephen B. Hauge's Dark Against the Sky. The coming-of-age journey of this "band of brothers" anchors this poignant story of camaraderie and adventure.
Nine-year-old Tommy yearns to find his family as he faces the daily challenges of grim chimneys and callous master sweeps. Though his search is often darkened by his work and the period, it is brightened by the time he shares with his fellow climbers and his friendships with many street-folk.
Young readers (aged 10-15) will enjoy the novel's plot and intriguing cast of characters, while adults will also appreciate its evocation of 1834 London, splendidly reflected in 33 pen-and-ink drawings. All readers will value the goals and personal growth that Tommy achieves on his journey.
No previous novel has focused on these captivating climbing boys, so for a rare tale told well, order a copy of Dark Against the Sky online at Climbingboys.com, Xlibris.com or at your local bookstore.
About the Author
Steve Hauge became interested in climbing boys in a British History course at Williams College. His concern led to this deeply researched story, which provides a window into the lives of these lads. Mr. Hauge, who has a Masters degree in English, is also the author of a CD-ROM on Robert Louis Stevenson and the Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. A teacher for 12 years, he lives in New Jersey with his wife and two children.
Please visit his website at http://www.climbingboys.com for further information on climbing boys and chimneys sweeps.
Dark Against the Sky by Stephen B. Hauge
A Climbing Boy's Story
Publication Date: March 7, 2005
Trade Paperback; 252 pages; 1-4134-6748-2
Cloth Hardback; 252 pages; 1-4134-6749-0
To request a complimentary paperback review copy, contact the publisher at (888) 795-4274 x. 472. Tearsheets may be sent by regular or electronic mail to Marketing Services. To purchase copies of the book for resale, please fax Xlibris at (610) 915-0294 or call (888) 795-4274 x.876.
Xlibris books can be purchased at any major bookstore, or online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Borders or Xlibris. For more information, contact Xlibris at (888) 795-4274 or on the web at www.Xlibris.com.