Railway Jack
Sale price
$1762
Picture Book · Ages 8–12 · 2020 · Est. 15 min read-aloud

Railway Jack

Written by KT Johnston · Illustrated by César Samaniego

A legless inspector and a baboon must prove their teamwork to skeptical authorities.

4.5 Goodreads · 147 ratings
40 pages· 1,887 words· Est. 15 min read-aloud· 700L
$18.95Save 7%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

In the late 1800s, Jim, a legless railway inspector, finds an unlikely partner in Jack, a baboon. Together, they navigate the challenges of proving their worth to skeptical railway authorities. As Jim trains Jack to assist him, their unique bond faces public scrutiny. Can this extraordinary duo convince everyone of their capabilities and redefine the role of service animals? Discover a heartwarming tale of resilience and friendship that defies expectations.

From the publisher

Jim was a South African railway inspector in the late 1800s who lost his legs in an accident while at work. Unable to perform all his tasks with his disability but desperate to keep his job, Jim discovered a brilliant solution, a baboon named Jack. Jim trained Jack to help him both at home and at the depot. But when the railway authorities and the public discovered a monkey on the job, Jack and Jim had to work together to convince everyone that they made a great team. This inspiring true story celebrates the history of service animals and a devoted friendship.

At a glance
Format
Hardcover
Pages
40
Words
1,887
Reading age
8–12
Audience
Picture
Lexile
700L
Themes & topics
After the last page

Talk about it together

The Correlated Education Standards and a Discussion Guide are available for download at ktjohnston.com/railway-jack.

What readers & critics say

Reviews

“The book successfully shows people’s relationships with service animals and offers a positive portrayal of disability. A good conversation starter.”

School Library Journal

Critic

“A warm, engaging tale of the bond between a resourceful man and his service animal.”

Kirkus

Critic

“In the annals of service animals, there can be but few to equal Jack.”

Booklist

Critic

Your next read

Books that feel like this one

See all similar books
The fine print

Book details

Reading levels
ATOS
4
F&P level
~Q
AR points
0.5
AR interest level
LG
AR quiz
507068
Publication
Published
February 1, 2020
Publisher
Capstone Editions
Edition
Language
English
Type
Picture Book
Identifiers
ISBN
9781684460885
LCCN
2019047419

Surprise a reader with their next favorite book.

Spotted a mistake or something missing? Improve this page.

Are you the author or illustrator? Claim your book.

Top contributors: The Goodfather · KT Johnston