The train at the end of my street by Tom Jellett

I still find it quite exciting catching a train (whether to sit upstairs? Or downstairs?) and hopefully some of that excitement is conveyed in the drawings. ... 

(I usually sit upstairs). Tom Jellett

I once had a train at the end of my street so the title of this book really grabbed my attention. I now live in a part of Sydney where there are no trains. Commuters and families have to travel by bus to the CBD to then catch a train. I actually do this every week on my way to a volunteer job. I really enjoy the train part of my journey. It would be fantastic to share this book with your own child before or after a train outing especially if this is not a part of their daily life. The trains in this book are clearly in Sydney but this book will translate easily to other train networks. You might even have a chat about graffiti and also all the supportive inclusions around train stations for people with a visual impairment. 

This new Australian picture book is a joyous celebration of family life and trains. Mum and dad and their two children live near a station. Mum catches the train to work and on weekends the family catch the train or an outing. Our narrator explains all about the different trains, how to buy tickets, and how to stand safely on the platform but this is not a lesson it's just a recount of their happy time together. Most of the story takes place over one day and this is beautifully shown in the front end paper (morning) and back end paper (same scene in the evening).

I am certain this book will be a 2026 CBCA Early Childhood notable. Tom Jellett creates so much movement and (implied) noise on each page. This book is an essential purchase for every preschool and also perfect to add to your school library.  I especially love the double spread scene of the busy station where we see all sorts of people on the move heading to and from their trains in groups or pairs or alone with bags and suitcases, backpacks and strollers. Read more about Tom Jellett here. (Hot stuff by Margaret Clark is one of my all-time favourite read aloud books). 

It’s a simple book that feels very familiar and explores all things train from the perspective of a child who can hear trains from their home. From meeting Mum as she disembarks after work to buying a ticket, checking the platform clock and bringing snacks for a long journey, this book has it all covered! There are many different types of trains and stations, and all are lovingly illustrated with Sydney-based author and illustrator Tom Jellett’s trademark warmth. Jellett has created a delightful celebration of transportation and a perfect book to share with train fan. Readings

Image source: Good Reading Magazine

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