The Railway Children

This was a cozy-feeling book that was gentle and sweet, and the kids were all likeable, but it didn't get to the next level like Nesbit's Five Children books do. Maybe she just works better when there's magic involved.

Growing up with The Boxcar Children, I figured the kids would be orphans or live at a railyard or something, but they were just somewhat poor (but labor was cheap enough they still had domestic help) and lived near a railroad.

Whenever I think about 20th century Britain, the World Wars play a huge part, so it was interesting to read something written before then.

As many rescues as the kids did, I was surprised that their Dad being released happened basically totally offscreen.

It was funny that Phyllis's main character trait was being a screwup.

It got surprisingly meta at the end, considering the era and audience.

Aside from the numerous language struggles (understanding Victorian British English and idioms) this is a magnificent book. We (my grandson & I) learned much with respect to honor, helping others and the strength of family love.

""Stick to it," said Peter; "everything has an end, and you get to it if you only keep all on." Which is quite true, if you come to think of it, and a useful thing to remember in seasons of trouble--such as measles, arithmetic, impositions, and those times when you are in disgrace, and feel as though no one would ever love you again, and you could never--never again--love anybody."