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jennifermreads's review
adventurous
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
I remember reading this when I was a “wee tyke” and absolutely adoring it. Recently, my mom re-read the book and I thought “Why not? Let’s see if the magic holds.” It did.
Just like when I was a child, I found myself longing to peek inside the boxcar, take a swim in their pool, place a bottle of milk in the waterfall refrigerator, spook at the branch <i>crack</i> in the night, and just plain be a part of Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny Alden’s world. What a magical series this is. Yes, there are gender stereotypes. But this can be a teaching moment for new readers. Those roles are a part of our past and the only way we change is to learn.
Gertrude Chandler Warner was right: stories “that are both easy and fun to read” are desperately needed. Luckily for children, the options have multiplied. But the Boxcar series? Parents and grandparents can reminisce while sharing these delightful tales with the newest generation.
sylvimblack's review against another edition
adventurous
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.75
lindab66reads's review against another edition
5.0
This was one of those heartwarming stories I read as a child in elementary school, and something sparked my memory and desire to read it again. The story was much shorter than I thought I remembered, but just as heartwarming. Even today it makes me want to live in a boxcar.
sophie211green's review against another edition
Such a good story. I remember loving these books when I was younger and I am so happy that I decided to re-read this one!
The book is such a unique adventure. The characters are so lovable as well.
The book is such a unique adventure. The characters are so lovable as well.
ajay913's review against another edition
adventurous
hopeful
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Content Warnings
Minor: Sexism and Misogyny
iamdwg's review against another edition
3.0
Read this to my 5-year-old son as his first chapter book/non-picture book, and he did pretty good listening to the story and I think he’d like to hear the next one. I wasn’t blown away by this introductory book which felt more coming-of-age than anything else. The idea is that there’s an adventure in every chapter, but...not really. I hope the sequels really start getting into the mysteries, because that’s where I think they thrive.
crackercrumblife's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
karinlib's review against another edition
3.0
Yes, this is a little dated. But I do like reading the old children's books now and then.