LITERATURE: Toby the Tram Engine (The Rev. W. Awdry, 1952)

British children’s book Toby the Tram Engine is the seventh in The Railway Series and was originally published by Edmund Ward. During his family holiday, the Fat Controller meets an old steam tram engine named Toby, whose small railway faces closure. However, having grown fond of the little tram, the Fat Controller may just have an exciting new opportunity to offer Toby on his railway on the Island of Sodor.

PROS

• A charming and concise writing style which is perfect for such a heart-warming, feel-good narrative.
• Toby is a wonderful and endearing new character who fits well into the ensemble’s overall dynamic.
• Reverend Awdry’s expertise on railways shines through his writing on steam trams, rail/road relationships and the changing face of rail legalities.
• A clever and accessible social commentary on the impact which the public’s increased reliance on road vehicles was having upon small railways.
• Good use of a(n essentially) “To be Continued”, which many children would not have experienced before.
• A lovely Christmas tale rich in warmth ends the narrative.

NITPICKS

• Another book in the series which raises some notable questions around just how dependent the engines are on their drivers.

VERDICT: 10/10