Death is a hard part of life but a part just the same and it is sure to knock a young person’s life sideways when it happens to someone or something that they care about. Books are an invaluable resource in helping children understand loss, deal with a wave of unfamiliar emotions and eventually how to heal. Ben Brooks’ emotion-filled fantasy adventure does all of these things and it is well worth buying a ticket to board a train that offers a journey and travelling companion like no other. Grandma Ellen and Elliot Oppenheim were the very best of friends. She was the one that introduced him to the wonder and magic of music. When she dies, Elliot cannot stand to hear music anymore, vows never to play his violin again and wants to hide away from the world. He is lost in grief and despair until he discovers a mysterious ticket under his pillow. A discovery that is quickly followed by the appearance of a small, well-dressed dragon in his bedroom. A train station has appeared inside Elliot’s wardrobe. All aboard The Night Train. But where will it lead and what does it want Elliot to discover… In Ben’s charming adventure, music, a dragon and a magical train journey are the tonic for healing in a touching story that gently weaves the complex topics of death and grief with a heartwarming and joyous celebration of life, family and those that we hold dear.
Featuring George Ermos’ artwork - I cannot get enough of the affable, dapperly attired Kimorin - The Dragon on the Train is a bundle of joy; imaginative and funny, comforting and reassuring, and will be welcomed by any children who are experiencing the loss of a loved one. Mixing fantasy with the upsetting realities of bereavement, Brooks has crafted a moving and ultimately uplifting read that leaves that warm, fuzzy feeling inside and with the message that, ‘It’s only goodbye if you forget.’ Perfectly composed and note perfect, Brooks, through the adorable and wisened Kimorin the dragon, offers hope and gives so many valuable messages and nuggets to hold on to. Never shying away from the rawness of grief and the difficulties of loss, Kimorin provides support and understanding with his words; the need to remember the good times and to cherish the memories, to not be sad that it is over but to be glad that it happened, and to never push away the things that remind us of those that we love for those are the things that help us feel connected to those that are gone. Sometimes just listening to the music is all you really need. Delightful! Recommended for 8+. With huge thanks to Hachette for the copy I received in exchange for an honest review.
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March 2024
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