The Night Train; Matilda Woods, illustrated by Penny Neville-Lee

The shrill blast of a whistle and The Night Train is off. As the snow falls, it hurtles through the darkness to deliver some very special passengers to the dreams of children. The yeti, ballerina, princess and monster all have starring roles to fulfil this evening. When a felled tree blocks the track, it’s a race against time to clear the rails and get the train moving again. With dreams at stake and midnight fast approaching, will the passengers make it to Platform ZZZ in time…

All aboard for a first class festive read! Drawing comparisons to The Polar Express, The Night Train is a joyous and imaginative tale of how characters enter the dreams of children. A charming plot and gorgeous illustrations make for a memorable read that is perfect for snuggling up with on a cold winter’s eve

In a story where dreams are quite literally followed, the cast of unique characters are a delightful bunch as they learn to come together in a time of need, discover strengths they didn’t know they had, understand that appearances can de deceiving and find out that even monsters need to feel loved.

From departure to arrival, the magical journey oozes Christmas; a steam powered engine, resplendent in red and gold, traversing a snowy landscape with fir trees sprinkled in white powder whilst a blizzard rages outside. Could it be any more Christmas? Then there’s the warmth inside the carriages; the comfy sofas to the cosy lighting to the wood panelled walls, the rotund and friendly conductor to the rosy-cheeked driver to the delightful passengers. I grew up near the Severn Valley Railway and this has got my heart yearning for the enchanting Christmas train rides of yesteryear.

You won’t want to miss this stop; a chuffing great read!

Recommended for 6+.