Samuel DenHartog's Blog: The Road to 1,440 - Posts Tagged "plain"

The steady turn of a waterwheel, the scent of freshly milled grain, the creak of a wooden press extracting the last drops of cider—this book is a glimpse into a world where work and faith intertwine. It follows the life of a miller and his family through a summer of labor, learning, and quiet but profound moments of change. With the children home from school, the boys take on new responsibilities at the mill while their sister learns the wisdom passed down through the rhythm of daily chores. The challenges they face are not only in their work but in the decisions that come with an ever-modernizing world pressing at the edges of their close-knit community.

At its heart, this story is about more than just milling grain or pressing apples. It’s about the traditions that hold a family together, the lessons passed down through parables and quiet example, and the resilience required to navigate a world that does not stand still. The Amish way of life is built on discipline and faith, but it is also full of warmth, humor, and the small joys of a well-earned rest at the end of a long day. Through the changing seasons and unexpected hardships, the characters find strength in their work and each other.

Historical details ground the story in an era where cars were beginning to appear on dirt roads, electricity was creeping into rural towns, and yet the water-powered mill remained the heart of its community. These moments of transition create tension and reflection, forcing each character to consider what progress means for them. When illness enters their world, they must rely on their values and their neighbors to find the best path forward, proving that true strength is often found in the quietest acts of perseverance.

I enjoyed bringing this story to life, drawing on historical research and a love for stories celebrating tradition, family, and the beauty of a simple but meaningful life. It’s a journey through one season in a world that feels both distant and familiar, filled with lessons that remain timeless.