The Golden Swift

Gr 3-6–In this follow-up to Grossman’s The Silver Arrow, Kate, who is white, waits impatiently for her uncle to deliver her train schedule, allowing her to resume her animal rescue activities. When Uncle Herbert doesn’t show up, she takes the Silver Arrow out to look for him. Along the way, she runs into another train and conductor on the Great Secret Intercontinental Railway. When she discovers that the conductor of the Golden Swift has gone rogue and is implementing his own plans for the environment, Kate must choose between continuing her search for her uncle or helping the Golden Swift’s conductor with his plan. On top of everything else, Kate struggles with school and her relationship with her brother. Magical trains, talking animals, and environmental change all take center stage in this story full of friendship and moral dilemmas. Kate discovers that sometimes good intentions just aren’t enough. Grossman’s writing style and vocabulary make this tale kid-friendly and easy to read. The riveting action will keep young readers turning pages, eager to find out what happens next. Bishop’s black-and-white illustrations highlight the characters, settings, and plot in a wonderful way.