The Train to Impossible Places
#1 of 3 in Train To Impossible Places Series
on Goodreads (3,158)
What’s inside...
Alternative Cover Edition of ISBN 9781250189509
A train that travels through impossible places. A boy trapped in a snow globe. And a girl who’s about to go on the adventure of a lifetime.
The Impossible Postal Express is no ordinary train. It’s a troll-operated delivery service that runs everywhere from ocean-bottom shipwrecks, to Trollville, to space.
But when this impossible train comes roaring through Suzy’s living room, her world turns upside down. After sneaking on board, Suzy suddenly finds herself Deputy Post Master aboard the train, and faced with her first delivery―to the evil Lady Crepuscula.
Then, the package itself begs Suzy not to deliver him. A talking snow globe, Frederick has information Crepuscula could use to take over the entire Union of Impossible Places. But when protecting Frederick means putting her friends in danger, Suzy has to make a difficult choice―with the fate of the entire Union at stake.
Why read this book
- Sparks imagination with magical, whimsical adventures.
- Encourages resilience and problem-solving in young readers.
- Introduces complex concepts in a kid-friendly manner.
- Ideal for shared reading, enhancing family bonds.
Discussion points
What would you do if you found a magical train like the Impossible Postal Express?
How did Suzy's decisions throughout the story change the outcome of her adventure?
Can you think of a time when you had to solve a problem creatively, like Suzy?
What does friendship mean to you, and how do Suzy's friendships in the book reflect that?
If you could visit any of the magical places Suzy went to, which one would you choose and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own thoughts on the book, setting a comfortable tone for your child to express their opinions and ideas.
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences, which can help them connect more deeply with Suzy and the narrative's themes.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's responses, showing genuine interest and encouraging them to expand on their thoughts.
Highlight the themes of creativity, problem-solving, and friendship as you discuss, and relate them back to real-life scenarios your child may encounter.
If possible, use props from the book, like drawing a map of the train's route or creating simple puzzles inspired by the story’s challenges.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving and Creativity
Explanation: Throughout 'The Train to Impossible Places', protagonist Suzy encounters numerous challenges that she must solve using her wit and creativity. Her journey reflects continuous problem-solving scenarios, from navigating through strange lands to dealing with fantastical creatures.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to approach real-life problems with a similar creative mindset, understanding that sometimes conventional solutions might not work and innovative thinking is required.
Example Lesson: Courage and Resilience
Explanation: Suzy shows immense courage and resilience as she braves the unknown on the magical train. Her journey is fraught with obstacles, yet she perseveres and faces her fears head-on.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be brave when encountering new or intimidating situations, whether it's starting at a new school, trying out for a sports team, or standing up for what they believe in.
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, the friendships that Suzy forms play a crucial role in overcoming various challenges. These relationships illustrate how working together can achieve what might seem impossible alone.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of building and maintaining relationships. This lesson emphasizes the importance of teamwork and how friends can provide support and assistance in times of need.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: Suzy's insatiable curiosity about how the train works and her surroundings drives much of the plot. Her quest for knowledge leads to important discoveries and solutions.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and seek knowledge in all situations. This can apply to their educational journey, encouraging them to delve deeper into subjects that fascinate them and foster a lifelong love of learning.