Books About Railroads

The Best Railroads Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about railroads? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

John Henry
Trains Run!
Series
Locomotive
The Iron Dragon Never Sleeps
The Shortlist

Our 8 Favorite Books About Railroads

Train Song
Sale price
$1605
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1990

Train Song

By Diane Siebert, Mike Wimmer (Illustrator)

Embark on a rhythmic journey across continents by train.

32 pages· 334 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud
4.0/5 Goodreads · 131 ratings
$16.89Save 5%
Library Binding
Summary: Experience the rhythmic adventure of transcontinental trains as they traverse vast landscapes. Each page invites you to explore the wonders and challenges of this epic journey, where every stop holds a new discovery. Will the trains reach their destination, or will unexpected surprises derail their path? Dive into a world where the rhythm of the rails tells a story of exploration and connection.
John Henry
Sale price
$858
Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 1965

John Henry

By Ezra Jack Keats

A legendary man challenges a steam drill to prove human strength against machine power.

32 pages· 1,207 words· Est. 10 min read-aloud
4.0/5 Goodreads · 523 ratings
$8.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: John Henry, born with a hammer in hand, faces his greatest challenge: a race against a steam drill to tunnel through a mountain. As the railroad expands, can his legendary strength and determination outpace the relentless machine? This vibrant retelling of an African American folk ballad captures the essence of human spirit and resilience. Will John Henry's might and heart triumph over technology, or will the age of machines prevail? Discover the epic showdown that tests the limits of human endurance and the power of belief.
Trains Run!
Sale price
$1697
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2019

Trains Run!

By George Ella Lyon, Benn Lyon, Mick Wiggins (Illustrator) · Trucks Roll! series

Discover the world of trains, from steam engines to subways, in a day-long journey.

40 pages· 277 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud
4.8/7 Bookroo·3.8/5 Goodreads · 244 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Embark on a captivating journey through the world of trains, exploring everything from steam engines to subways. Follow the rhythmic path of locomotives as they travel day and night, revealing the fascinating roles of each train car. Dive into the vibrant world of railways and uncover the secrets of what makes trains run. Will you catch the rhythm of the tracks?
Locomotive
Sale price
$1899
Picture Book · Ages 4–10 · 2013

Locomotive

By Brian Floca

The story of the construction and journey of the first transcontinental railroad in the United States.

Caldecott Medal (2014)The New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Children’s Books Award (2013)Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Honor (2014)Orbis Pictus Honor (2014)
64 pages· 2,616 words· Est. 21 min read-aloud
4.8/7 Bookroo·4.1/5 Goodreads · 6,215 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: In the summer of 1869, embark on a thrilling journey across America on the new transcontinental railroad. Feel the power of the mighty locomotives as they race from plains to mountains to ocean. Discover the intricate work behind the scenes and the vibrant landscapes that blur past. This sensory adventure invites you to hear the steam's hiss and feel the engine's heat as families and crews traverse the young country. Will the journey be as smooth as the tracks laid before them, or will unexpected challenges arise? All aboard for an unforgettable ride!
Last Train
Sale price
$1899
Picture Book · Ages 5–8

Last Train

A nostalgic look at the decline of a small town's railroad station and the memories it holds.

32 pages· 303 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud
3.7/5 Goodreads · 172 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Hardcover
The Iron Dragon Never Sleeps
Sale price
$574
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 1994

The Iron Dragon Never Sleeps

By Stephen Krensky

A young girl uncovers hidden histories in a mining town.

96 pages· 12,331 words· Est. 1.5 hour read
3.6/5 Goodreads · 106 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: In 1867 California, ten-year-old Winnie befriends a Chinese boy and uncovers the untold stories of his people’s vital role in building the transcontinental railroad. As she learns more, Winnie faces the challenge of understanding and bridging cultural divides in a rapidly changing world. What secrets will she uncover, and how will they reshape her view of the town and its people?
The Little Train
Sale price
$759
Picture Book · Ages 0–3 · 1940

The Little Train

By Lois Lenski · The Little series

Engineer Small navigates a train from Tinytown to the city, facing tunnels and stations.

32 pages· 1,044 words· Est. 9 min read-aloud
4.3/7 Bookroo·3.8/5 Goodreads · 437 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Board book
Summary: Join Engineer Small as he steers his trusty train from Tinytown to the bustling city. Along the way, he encounters tunnels, stations, and the challenge of managing cargo and passengers. Will he complete his journey smoothly, or will unexpected surprises derail his plans? Discover the vibrant world of trains in this colorful adventure that captures the excitement and intricacies of rail travel.
Trains
Sale price
$2532
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2007

Trains

By Matt Doeden · Pebble Plus: Mighty Machines series

Discover the secrets of trains and their journeys.

24 pages· 54 words· Est. 1 min read-aloud
4.3/5 Goodreads · 16 ratings
$26.65Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Explore the fascinating world of trains, from powerful freight engines to sleek passenger cars. Uncover the mysteries of their parts, their cargo, and the incredible journeys they undertake. What makes these iron giants tick?
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