Reviews

The Railway Children by E. Nesbit

annashan's review against another edition

Go to review page

adventurous emotional hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective

5.0

jesforeverlostinbooks's review against another edition

Go to review page

adventurous emotional funny hopeful lighthearted sad medium-paced

5.0

"Don't you think it's rather nice to think that we're in a book that God's writing? If I were writing the book, I might make mistakes. But God knows how to make the story end just right - in the way that's best for us."

Awww this was delightful from beginning to end. This really is such a timeless classic that generations of people can read and enjoy. A perfect read aloud with your children!  I loved this historical story of a close, loving family fighting to make the best of things in a difficult situation set in an idyllic English countryside & so many beautiful moments throughout especially the ending! I loved that the kids were so creative with their problem-solving and that their simple, innocent act of waving to the train every day ended up having such a big, positive impact on their lives. This book will have you laughing one moment & teary eyed the next & will leave you with a smile on your face.

This book tells the story of three children whose father is taken away by the police & forced into sudden poverty with their mother. The children thrive in their new environment next to a railway… they make friends everywhere they go & by a wonderful coincidence one of these friends turns out to be exactly the person who can help them. And the ending was precious, sweet & beautiful. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves historicals and just needs a pleasant read that will put a smile on your face & in your heart.

amid's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

A Heartwarming Journey

Rating: 4.5 stars

The Railway Children is a captivating tale that beautifully captures the essence of childhood wonder and resilience. Set in the early 20th century, the story follows the lives of three siblings—Bobbie, Peter, and Phyllis—who find themselves uprooted from their comfortable city life to a humble cottage near a railway line. As they adjust to their new surroundings, they embark on extraordinary adventures and form a heartfelt bond with the railway and its people.

The plot unfolds with a perfect balance of excitement, mystery, and heartfelt moments. The children's unwavering love for the railway and its passengers shines through as they engage in acts of kindness and discover the power of compassion. Their determination to uncover the truth about their father's mysterious absence showcases their strength and resilience, making them relatable and endearing characters.

E. Nesbit's writing style is timeless, with vivid descriptions that transport readers to the countryside and effortlessly evoke a sense of nostalgia. The author beautifully captures the innocence and imagination of childhood, reminding us of the simple joys and enchantment that lie within everyday moments.

The Railway Children explores themes of family, friendship, and the power of hope. It portrays the power of community and the importance of standing up for what is right. The characters are well-developed, and their growth throughout the story is both realistic and heartwarming.

analicia_simar's review against another edition

Go to review page

adventurous hopeful lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

kirstenellang's review against another edition

Go to review page

5.0

If you don’t sob violently at the ending then I don’t think you have a heart

viczekaite's review against another edition

Go to review page

adventurous inspiring lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

oliviaalbion's review

Go to review page

3.0

It took me way too long to read this as it was a work lunch time read only book. Many different themes in this book but the narrator complicates quite a simple storyline. Not the amazing children's stories of today and probably more suited to adults wanting a social historical context to childrens lives during the time of publication.

brettec's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

I liked the book a lot, but just as a warning to anyone wanting it, there is a passage in which women are called soft and weak and men are called brave and strong and it isn't explicitly refuted. Just something that would be good to talk to any child about that reads the book to be sure they understand that we don't believe that to be true today!

dont_panic_42's review against another edition

Go to review page

There are plenty more fish in the sea

goldenauer's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

‘Classic a Month Challenge 2022’ (1/12)

The first of my challenge to read one classic a month. As one of my Dads favourite films, I wanted to start with ‘The Railway Children’. This was just a fun read and it was a great one to start with!