The Runaway Train Mini Treasure
Little Red Train Series
on Goodreads (141)
What’s inside...
THE RUNAWAY TRAIN - Chuff-chuff, whoo. . . . oooo! The little red train sets off down the track, and the dosy driver, Duffy, has a hectic day ahead of him - trying to catch up with it. Chuff-chuff, chuffity chuff, whoo...oo. . oo! The Little Red Train has set off down the track without sleepy-head Duffy Driver! Poor Duffy tries everything to catch up - he hitches a lift on a lorry, clambers aboard a motor boat, grabs the chance to ride a tractor and finally makes a heroic leap from a speeding helicopter! At last Duffy is safely back in the driver's cab, just in time for the Little Red Train to pull into the station at Sandy-on-Sea for a lovely, Lazy afternoon. Phew!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-4
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think made the train want to run away?
How did the different animals react to the train's journey?
What are some of the problem-solving skills the train used during its adventure?
Can you think of a time when you felt adventurous like the train?
What would you do if you were the conductor of a runaway train?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage children to express their thoughts and feelings about the train's adventure, relating it to their own experiences.
Discuss the various characters' responses to the runaway train and ask your child how they might react in similar situations.
Point out the problem-solving aspects of the story, asking your child how they might have handled the challenges the train faced.
Use expressive reading techniques, changing your tone of voice to match the exciting parts of the story to make the reading experience more engaging.
After reading, encourage your child to draw or act out their favorite scene from the book, helping them connect further with the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In 'The Runaway Train Mini Treasure,' the protagonist takes charge of a runaway train, demonstrating quick thinking and accountability.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to take responsibility for their actions and understand the importance of being dependable in tasks assigned to them, whether at home or school.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: The story showcases the character's ability to navigate through obstacles and make swift decisions to regain control of the train.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face challenges head-on and think critically about solutions in various situations, whether in their playtime or academics.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Facing a runaway train, the protagonist exhibits bravery by not panicking and instead handling the situation with courage.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be brave in the face of fears and challenges, helping them to overcome anxieties and build self-confidence.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the adventure, characters come together to help manage the crisis, highlighting the importance of working together to solve problems.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of cooperation and how collaborative efforts can often lead to the best solutions.
Example Lesson: Safety Awareness
Explanation: The book portrays the consequences of mechanical failures and the importance of staying alert and following safety rules.
Real-World Application: It teaches children to be conscious of their environment and the importance of adhering to safety guidelines in everyday activities.