Typical of many stories of its era, this 1950s book has a simple plot and wordy writing style. The bright, fanciful llustrations are one of its better points, although they are a little overdone.

This book incorporates a certain kind of hyperbole I have always found distressing in its involvement of the "mayor himself" and the efforts of all of the townspeople in Lower Trainswitch. The real world doesn't stand on its head like that for much of anyone. Again this is an artifact of the era.

Unlike other reviewers, I don't find much symbolism of conformance in the "staying on the rails no matter what" mantra of the story.

My children enjoy this story but it is not one of their favorites.

This is an adorable story about a baby locomotive who went to the village of Lower Trainswitch to learn to be a big locomotive.
They have lessons in many classes to learn whistle blowing, stopping for a red flag waving and puffing loudly, just to name a few. However, the most important lesson to learn was staying on the rails no matter what.

Tootle could never seem to do this. He always wanted to go and wonder in the meadow and chase birds or butterfly's.
Tootle had to be taught a lesson.

This little book teaches children in a fun way how important it is to follow directions.
My granddaughter and I enjoyed this read.
The illustrations were colorful and the book was enjoyable for her to look at.
Nice job!

being read this book as a child was simple fun, and went along with my parents encouraging me to be responsible.
as a parent I wanted my kids to realize that others were hurt by our unthinking selfishness.
It seems now that I'm older that the lesson, of doing only what WE want can spill the cargo of our family that we carry through life with us, is still valid.
That everyone in town is rooting for me to do what is right, and cheers when I'm successful, is what I wish to believe.