Locomotive
What’s inside...
Locomotive offers a comprehensive look at the early age of railroads, the people who helped build and operate them, and how rail travel transformed the country. The book follows a family as they travel from Omaha to Sacramento in the summer of 1869, shortly after the completion of the transcontinental railroad. It vividly brings to life the details of the trip, the sounds, speed, and strength of the mighty locomotives, the work that keeps them moving, and the thrill of travel from plains to mountain to ocean. The book is a Caldecott Medal Winner and Sibert Honor Book.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-6
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think life was like for people traveling on the locomotive in the 1800s?
How do the illustrations in the book make you feel about the journey of the locomotive?
Why do you think the author chose to tell the story from the perspective of the locomotive?
What are some differences and similarities between traveling by train today and in the past?
What kind of emotions do you think the passengers might be feeling? Can you describe them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves as a passenger on the locomotive, asking them to describe what they see, hear, and feel.
Discuss the historical context of the story, explaining how locomotives were crucial in shaping modern transportation.
Point out the detailed illustrations and ask your child to notice small, intricate details, enhancing their observational skills.
Relate the story to any train journeys the family has taken, comparing the experiences.
Ask your child to think about how the story would be different if it were set in the present day, encouraging creative thinking and a grasp of historical changes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance and Hard Work
Explanation: The book showcases the construction and operation of the American transcontinental railroad, illuminating the relentless effort and determination of the workers.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of persistence and hard work in achieving their goals, whether in their studies, sports, or other activities.
Example Lesson: History and Technological Innovation
Explanation: Through detailed illustrations and narrative, 'Locomotive' provides a historical view of the advent of railroads in America, reflecting significant technological progress.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to appreciate history and foster an interest in how innovations shape societies, influencing their understanding of technological impacts in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The story emphasizes the collaboration among diverse groups of people, including engineers, workers, and communities, to build the railroad.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by recognizing the importance of working together with others to achieve common objectives, whether in school projects or family activities.
Example Lesson: Attention to Detail
Explanation: Brian Floca's intricate illustrations of the locomotive and its mechanics highlight the importance of attention to detail.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to be more observant and meticulous in their tasks, enhancing their academic skills and daily responsibilities.
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness and Diversity
Explanation: The book touches on the involvement of various ethnic groups in the railroad construction, promoting cultural awareness.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to celebrate diversity and understand the contributions of different cultures in community development and national achievements.