I have had the pleasure of owning this book for almost a decade. My oldest son was given this book as a gift when he became smitten with trains as a toddler. It has since been read countless times to all of my children as they too become interested in these giants. My critique of this book would be much less positive if I did not have young children to share it with. My worn copy is a paperback that is rather cheaply printed and bound. The top of many pages were trimmed incorrectly and therefore shows the bottom of the previous page. It is only a distraction to my adult observations. My kids have never noticed. The font is an uninteresting sans serif and the writing is equalling unimaginative. So why has this book outlived so many other train tales? Why has this become a treasured classic amongst my children's library? It is simple and beautiful. The illustrator, Richard Courtney, has perfectly matched content to target audience. Each page features a realistic yet youthful image that grabs young readers with its bright primary colors and intricate details. My children particularly love the blue caboose and the bullet train. They have independently flipped through the pages of this book staring at each train's unique features. While I would not give this book a second glance, my children (the important critics) have deemed it invaluable and a loved classic. ( )

I thought that this book was very well written as well as illustrated. This story represented trains and their true fact or purpose. It was educational for the reader as well as interesting for them to want to continue reading about trains and what they are all about. I would read this story when teaching my students about the different types of transportation since trains not only provide transportation for human passengers but as a shipping service as well.

Full-color photos trace the history, and development, of locomotives and railroads-- This format captures the flavor and spirit of it all, from the engineering feats of the TGV Trains to the opulence of train travel. This little book about trains is sure to touch the hearts of young and old alike. Kids of all ages will take great pleasure in pouring over the thrilling pictures and interesting information about the many different kinds of passenger and freight trains there really are; from the Diesel -Electric Locomotive to the Gondola's & Refigerator cars. My grandaughter especially liked the French "Oranges" because of the bright orange color; but I was most impressed with the Japanese Shinkansen. IT is filled with easy-to-read facts and realistic pictures, just right for young train lovers. ( )