Fast Train, Slow Train (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends Series)

by Rev. W. Awdry, Tommy Stubbs (Illustrator)

Overview

The newest Bright and Early Board Book featuring Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends, this sturdy book features a simple train adventure about opposites to share with boys and girls ages 0 to 3.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780375856891
Publisher:	Random House Children's Books
Publication date:	04/28/2009
Series:	Bright and Early Books for Beginning Beginners Series
Pages:	36
Product dimensions:	6.60(w) x 9.10(h) x 0.30(d)
Age Range:	3 - 7 Years

About the Author

In the early 1940s, a loving father crafted a small, blue, wooden engine for his son, Christopher. The stories that this father, THE REVEREND W. AWDRY, made up to accompany this wonderful toy were first published in 1945. He continued to create new adventures and characters until 1972 when he retired from writing. Reverend Awdry died in 1997 at age 85.

Editorial Reviews

James, the bright red train engine, challenges Edward, the blue train engine, to a race. While thinking only about winning the race, James dashes along the track. Meanwhile Edward steadily chugs along the track. James is focused on being first to arrive at the Ballahoo station. On the other hand, Edward stops to lend a hand along the way. He lets a calf cross the tracks and he helps the stranded shoppers from the bus get to the stores. James, fixed on winning the race, passes the calf and shoppers without a second glance. James' vanity gets the best of him in the end while Edward's steadfast qualities and kindness still gets him to his destination. The story resembles the theme of a familiar fable of the tortoise and the hare. Color illustrations support the poetic text; however there are some confusing parts. For instance, there are the two blue train engines that are differentiated by their numbers; however, the role of train engine number one is unclear. Perhaps, it is Thomas the tank engine but its purpose in the story is not identified. This book is part of the "Bright and Early Book" series to encourage young children into the world of reading. Reviewer: Carrie Hane Hung

Children's Literature - Carrie Hane Hung