The Three Railway Engines

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the consequences of a bad mood or feeling stuck in a 'no' phase. While many modern stories focus purely on validation, this classic collection introduces the idea that our attitudes affect our community and that even when we make mistakes, there is a path back to being 'really useful.' Through the stories of Edward, Gordon, and Henry, children see a range of personalities: from the eager helper to the proud boaster. The book is particularly helpful for discussing the importance of teamwork and the reality that everyone, even a big engine, needs a little help sometimes. It is a gentle but firm look at manners and social responsibility, set against the fascinating backdrop of early twentieth-century railways.