Boxcar Children
Overview: Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny are orphans. Determined to make it on their own, they set out ot find a safe place to live.
They discover an old, red boxcar that provides shelter from a storm. Against all odds, they make it into their home – and become The Boxcar Children.
Pages: 155 Pages
Writer: Gertrude Chandler Warner
Recommendations:
I fondly recall devouring several books from this series in my youth. Now, as a responsible adult, I decided to introduce this particular book to my son. But before diving into the tale with him, I felt compelled to revisit it myself.
The story revolves around a band of orphaned children evading their cruel grandfather, who happens to be their only guardian. They stumble upon an abandoned boxcar, which they transform into their humble abode. Despite their dire circumstances, these resourceful youngsters manage to make ends meet with a surprisingly positive outlook on life.
Admittedly, some aspects of the story may seem a bit outdated. However, the underlying message of unity and resilience in the face of adversity still shines through. It’s truly admirable how these kids refuse to be torn apart and remain steadfast in their loyalty to one another.
While the book may not elicit the same level of excitement it once did for me as a child, sharing it with a young reader can spark some thought-provoking discussions. It’s a breezy read for adults, but the true magic lies in experiencing it through the eyes of a child. Just be prepared for some probing questions along the way.
In conclusion, this book may show its age, but its charm is best appreciated when shared with a young audience. As an adult reader, you may notice a few flaws here and there, but hey, that’s all part of the fun, right?