The Train : Watch It Work

School Library Journal

K Up Using the same format as that of The Car (Viking, 1984), Marshall describes the operation of steam, diesel, and electric locomotives; railroad signals; and freightyard sorting. Illustrations consisting of pop-ups and pull-tab working diagrams that demonstrate locomotive engines, pantographs , and light-signal systems will fascinate all ages from preschool on up; however, the vocabulary is very difficult (e.g., rectifiers, gradient, intercooler) so that parents or older readers sharing this book with young children will need to do as much explaining as reading. Perfect for children to pore over its illustrations until their reading skills improve , The Train will also appeal to older readers who are not put off by the pop-up format. A pop-up of four locomotives serves as an enticing introduction; a working diagram that demonstrates how the connecting rods of a steam engine's drive wheels operate will appeal to the mechanically inquisitive. A folding cardboard model of a locomotive that would make an appealing library display is included. The Train is attractive enough that libraries should try to find a way to cope with the inherent drawbacks of its pop-up format. Jeffrey A. French, Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library