The Railway Children

by Edith Nesbit
The Railway Children cover
Good Books rating 4.58
Children's Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 1638
  • Added: 2025-10-08
  • Updated: 2025-10-11
  • Publisher: LA CASE Books
  • Published: 2018-03-22
  • Formats: 39
  • Reviews: 3
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Waterstones
Paperback • £7.99–£8.99 Hardback • £9.99–£14.99 CD-Audio • £12.99
Bookshop
Format • £5.69–£10.44

The Railway Children is a timeless classic that follows the adventures of Roberta, Peter, and Phyllis after their father is taken away by two mysterious men. Forced to leave their comfortable life behind, they move to a simple country cottage near a railway station, where they befriend the local station master and porter. Their days are filled with excitement and danger, including a daring attempt to prevent a train disaster. Yet, the mystery of their father's disappearance lingers, adding a layer of intrigue to their new life./n/nFirst published in 1906, this beloved story has captivated generations of readers with its warmth, charm, and vivid storytelling. The children's resilience and the bonds they form with the people around them make this a heartwarming tale that continues to delight audiences of all ages.

Reviews
BooksPlease · 2021-06-22
heartwarming 4.50

The book is a heartwarming tale that captures the essence of family and adventure. It's a nostalgic journey that resonates with readers of all ages.

This review highlights how 'The Railway Children' is a feel-good book that transports readers to a bygone era. The story of the three children and their adventures is both charming and uplifting, making it a timeless classic. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth, making it a delightful read for both children and adults. The simple yet engaging writing style adds to the book's appeal, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wide audience.

Quick quotes

    It's 'a feel good' book about a family living in a world long gone – 1905 to be precise.

    The story of the three children and their adventures is both charming and uplifting.

    The book captures the essence of family and adventure in a way that resonates with readers of all ages.

Lady Fancifull · 2016-09-02
uplifting 4.50

The book is uplifting and moral, emphasizing charity and goodwill without being preachy. It's a story that inspires and entertains in equal measure.

This review emphasizes the uplifting and moral nature of 'The Railway Children,' noting that it inspires charity and goodwill without being preachy. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to entertain and inspire readers, making it a valuable read for both children and adults. The story's themes of kindness, adventure, and family are highlighted as particularly noteworthy. The reviewer finds the book to be a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers of all ages.

Quick quotes

    The book is a remarkably uplifting and moral one.

    It is not the morality of 'know your place' or pious god-fearing, but can clearly be seen as a story of charity and good-will.

    It truly inspires charity and excessive good-will.

The Guardian · 2012-05-13
moving 4.75

The book's vivid descriptions and engaging narrative make it a powerful and moving story. It has the ability to touch the hearts of even the most hardened readers.

The reviewer praises 'The Railway Children' for its vivid and lively storytelling, which brings the characters and their adventures to life. The book's ability to evoke emotions and create a deep connection with the readers is particularly noted. The reviewer finds the story to be moving and powerful, highlighting its timeless appeal. The book's themes of family, adventure, and resilience are beautifully portrayed, making it a must-read for anyone looking for a heartwarming tale.

Quick quotes

    It has the power to move even the hardest heart.

    Edith Nesbit has surely brought the liveliness through words as if it were a real story.

    The book's themes of family, adventure, and resilience are beautifully portrayed.

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