The Train of States
on Goodreads (115)
What’s inside...
The Train of States is an imaginative and informative journey through the fifty states of America. Each state is represented by a train car, filled with the state's notable figures, landmarks, and history. The book offers a fun and educational ride through the country's history, featuring state birds, flowers, and trees, along with forty-three presidents. Readers are invited to spot flags, heroes, animals, and landmarks as they travel from Delaware to Washington, D.C., celebrating the fifty states.
Discussion points
What state would you like to visit the most, and why?
How are the states different from each other based on what you saw in the book?
Can you think of an interesting fact from the book about one of the states?
If you could create your own state, what would it be like and what would you name it?
How do trains help connect different parts of the country?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their favorite part of the book and discuss why it stood out to them.
Use a map to help them visualize where each state is located and to enhance their geographical understanding.
Prompt your child to think critically by asking them to compare and contrast different states featured in the book.
Together, research more fun facts about the states they’re most interested in.
Discuss how transportation, like trains, plays a vital role in connecting diverse communities and cultures.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Geographical Awareness
Explanation: Through a whimsical train journey, each car representing a different U.S. state, 'The Train of States' encourages understanding of the nation's geography.
Real-World Application: Children can better visualize and remember the location and specific characteristics of each state, enhancing their map-reading skills and geographical knowledge.
Example Lesson: Historical Knowledge
Explanation: The book provides historical facts and figures about each state, allowing children to learn about significant events and landmarks.
Real-World Application: This information helps children appreciate their own state's history or learn about others, fostering a sense of curiosity and respect for national heritage.
Example Lesson: Cultural Diversity
Explanation: Illustrations and tidbits about each state's unique culture highlight the diverse tapestry of the United States.
Real-World Application: Children learn to embrace and respect diverse cultures and lifestyles, promoting inclusivity and social awareness in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Importance of Exploration
Explanation: The journeying aspect of the train in the book instills a sense of adventure regarding exploration and learning.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be inquisitive and explore the world around them, whether through travel, reading, or interactive learning.
Example Lesson: Memory Skills Enhancement
Explanation: Remembering facts and trivia about each state as presented in the train cars helps to enhance memory and cognitive skills.
Real-World Application: Improves children’s academic performance and cognitive abilities related to memory retention and recall, useful in all areas of their educational journey.