The Railway Children: The Sisterhood
The Railway Children Series
on Goodreads (61,972)
What’s inside...
The Railway Children: The Sisterhood follows the adventures of three siblings, Roberta (Bobbie), Peter, and Phyllis, who, along with their mother, move to a house near a railway after their father is falsely imprisoned for espionage. The children watch the trains, wave to the passengers, and befriend the station staff and other local residents. Over time, they engage in various adventures and come to understand the meaning of true kindness and social justice. Celebrate International Women's Day with the original rebel girls! When their father is taken away unexpectedly, Roberta, Peter, Phyllis, and their mother move from London to a small cottage in the country. The children find solace at the nearby railway station, making friends with Perks the Porter and the Station Master. Each day, they wave at the passing London train, sending their love to their father. Unbeknownst to them, a kindly old gentleman passenger who waves back holds the key to their father's disappearance. The Railway Children is a beloved classic that honors iconic female writers of the 19th and early 20th century, and is celebrated in a special Puffin Classics set for International Women's Day.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-12
Length
304 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the children's lives change when they moved to the countryside? What would you do if you were in their situation?
What qualities do you admire in Roberta, Peter, and Phyllis? Which of these qualities would you like to develop in yourself?
How do the children help the people they meet near the railway? What can we learn from their acts of kindness?
The children faced many challenges throughout the story. Which challenge do you think was the hardest, and why?
How did the ending of the book make you feel? What do you think happens to the characters next?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, relating it to their own experiences and worldviews.
Discuss the historical context of the book to enhance understanding and appreciation for the era in which the story is set.
Highlight the importance of empathy and kindness by focusing on how the children’s actions positively affected those around them.
Use the book as a springboard to discuss family dynamics and the importance of sibling support and cooperation in facing life’s challenges.
Finish your discussion by asking your child to imagine their own ending to the book, encouraging creative thinking and storytelling skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: The children in 'The Railway Children: The Sisterhood' consistently demonstrate empathy by understanding and sharing the feelings of others, particularly in their interactions with the railway workers and the old gentleman.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these lessons by showing understanding and care towards their classmates and community members, recognizing others' feelings and perspectives.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family
Explanation: Throughout the story, the siblings support and care for each other during their father’s absence, exemplifying strong family bonds.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of sticking together with family members during tough times, supporting each other's emotional and physical needs.
Example Lesson: Resourcefulness
Explanation: The children use their ingenuity and resourcefulness to solve problems, such as when they flag down a train to prevent an accident.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to think creatively in solving daily problems or conflicts at home or school, using their initiative and thinking on their feet.
Example Lesson: Justice and Integrity
Explanation: The children's determination to prove their father's innocence teaches the importance of seeking justice and maintaining integrity.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to always stand up for what is right and be truthful, even when faced with challenging situations.
Example Lesson: Coping with Change
Explanation: The family’s move from London to the countryside and adjusting to a new life showcases how to handle significant changes with positivity.
Real-World Application: Children learn to embrace change in life, whether it's moving to a new place, changing schools, or other transitions, and find positive aspects in new beginnings.