Please read this book to your children every once in awhile at every age. While you are at it, read it for yourself! I have seen this book at the bookstore in passing but never bought it thinking it was too old for my kids right now. At Ben's Kindergarten screening, they gave every child a choice of a free book, and Ben picked this one for obvious reasons...a train on the cover. And not just any train, but the blue engine from "The Little Engine that Could" which of course is a children's classic. One evening, before bed, I read the book to Ben and Nathan. The words are too "mature" for their understanding, but after every page, I told them what it meant on their terms. Their eyes were glued to the book and I could tell that the messages were getting through. I have to warn you, it may be difficult to see the words towards the end of the book while you are fighting to read through your own tears! It's a moving book, and when you really think about what it is trying to teach your children as well as reminding ourselves as adults, it can get a bit emotional...especially at night time when you are ready to kiss your little treasures good night. Now, I make sure to read it to them once in awhile. In fact, Ben just picked it out last night. (another tissue please...)
