Train Dreams

by Denis Johnson
Train Dreams cover
Good Books rating 4.81
Historical Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 716
  • Added: 2025-09-19
  • Updated: 2025-10-11
  • ISBN: 9781847086631
  • Publisher: Granta Books
  • Published: 2012-09-06
  • Formats: 49
  • Reviews: 4
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Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99

Train Dreams follows the life of Robert Grainier, a day laborer in the early 20th-century American West. His story is a poignant exploration of personal loss and resilience amidst the rapid transformation of the nation. The novel is rich with vivid descriptions of the West's unique landscapes and the hardworking people who shaped it. /n/n As Grainier navigates his own struggles, the narrative also weaves in the broader historical changes that redefine America during his lifetime. The book is a testament to the enduring spirit of the West and the individuals who lived through its evolution.

Reviews
746 Books · 2020-11-06
Perfect 5.00

The novella is praised for its epic yet concise storytelling, making it a perfect blend of depth and brevity. It is considered a masterpiece by the reviewer.

The reviewer considers 'Train Dreams' to be a perfect novella, praising its ability to convey epic themes in a concise format. They appreciate the depth of the storytelling and the richness of the characters, making it a standout piece of literature. The reviewer also notes the novel's exploration of the American myth and its relevance to contemporary society, adding layers of meaning to the narrative. They find the book to be a masterpiece that resonates deeply with readers, offering a profound and moving reading experience.

Quick quotes

    Train Dreams by Denis Johnson may be the perfect novella.

    It is epic yet small, and contains the weight of a much larger work.

    A masterpiece that resonates deeply with readers, offering a profound and moving reading experience.

The Guardian · 2012-09-13
profound 4.50

The novel beautifully questions the cost of human society and civilization. It is a profound exploration of human life.

This reviewer was deeply moved by the book's gentle yet profound exploration of what it means to be human. They appreciate how the story subtly questions the cost of society and civilization, making it a thought-provoking read. The writing is soft and beautiful, leaving a lasting impression on the reader. They believe the book is a profound meditation on life, making it a standout piece of literature.

Quick quotes

    Softly and beautifully, this novel asks a profound question of human life: is the cost of human society and so-called civilisation perhaps just ...

    The writing is soft and beautiful, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

    It is a profound exploration of human life.

Biblioklept · 2012-05-29
excellent 5.00

The novella is an excellent starting point for those unfamiliar with Johnson's work. It belongs on a shelf with Steinbeck's classics.

This reviewer thinks Train Dreams is a perfect introduction to Denis Johnson's work, praising its excellence and comparing it to Steinbeck's classics. They highlight how the book captures the essence of American life and history in a compact yet powerful narrative. The reviewer believes it is a must-read for anyone interested in American literature, showcasing Johnson's unique storytelling ability.

Quick quotes

    Train Dreams is an excellent starting place for those unfamiliar with Johnson's work.

    The book will rest at home on a shelf with Steinbeck's classics.

    It captures the essence of American life and history in a compact yet powerful narrative.

Arts Fuse · 2011-10-15
Haunting 4.75

The book beautifully balances themes of beauty and terror, showcasing Johnson's mastery of storytelling. It is a haunting and evocative read.

The reviewer praises Johnson's ability to balance themes of beauty and terror, creating a haunting and evocative narrative. They highlight the author's skill in rendering the world with a sense of both wonder and dread, making the reading experience deeply affecting. The reviewer also notes the novel's exploration of the human condition and the natural world, which adds layers of depth to the story. They find the book to be a masterful blend of lyrical prose and profound themes, making it a standout piece of literature.

Quick quotes

    In 'Train Dreams' the world of beauty and terror is balanced as only our best writers have been able to balance those things.

    Johnson's prose is both lyrical and profound, adding layers of depth to the story.

    A haunting and evocative read that showcases Johnson's mastery of storytelling.

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