I began writing Hitches and Ditches on the Erie Canal a little over two years ago. It has been a labor of love for my students and those desiring to learn about the history of the Erie Canal.

Hitches and Ditches on the Erie Canal is not only a piece of historical fiction but it is a coming of age story of a young boy facing the many challenges of those transitional stages of life from boy to man.

The story takes place in eastern New York in the early 1800's. Luke, the main character, is walking into town with his pa. When they arrive and head off to the town barber shop, Luke learns of Governor Clinton's desire to build a canal in New York State. There are those who are rather skeptical. Luke's pa guides him to keep an open mind about the seemingly impossible to some.

The story evolves as tough times fall upon the family and Luke's pa needs to go off to work the canal to support the family. As luck would have it, however, a change in events happens and it is Luke who must go off to work on the canal.

On his travels to go to work on the canal, Luke meets Jack who quickly becomes his best friend. They make the trek together to Rome, New York to begin working on the canal. They quickly learn that it is hard backbreaking work.

Governor Clinton takes a liking to Luke as he admires his work ethic and his sense of responsibility. Clinton makes a request of Luke that leads to some tough choices for Luke.

Luke meets many interesting characters such as the Irish, prisoners and others who have come to earn money and build the canal.

The book takes the reader through some suspenseful twists and turns that will keep them turning page after page to learn the outcome.

I am still fine tuning some of the book’s features such as formatting and some minor editing details. However, since I am self-publishing, and upon many requests, I have decided to release the book to raise the funds necessary to hire a professional editor, formatter and illustrator. Please bear with the formatting issues that I am presently dealing with.

I hope that all will enjoy the book and feel free to offer constructive feedback. I would love for this book to be a great learning experience for all who choose to read it. I thank all for their support and look forward to hearing from you after you read the book.

I am providing the link below where you can go to order the book. I have tried to keep it reasonable at $14.95 for each book. At some point, I will try to provide an address should anyone desire to send the book to me for an autographed copy.

I may be contacted at Ms.HannahStuart@gmail.com

The book may be purchased at http://www.lulu.com