About the Author
EDITH NESBIT was a mischievous child who grew up into an unconventional adult. With her husband, Hubert Bland, she was one of the founder members of the socialist Fabian Society; their household became a centre of the socialist and literary circles of the times. E. Nesbit turned late to children's writing. Her first children's book, THE TREASURE SEEKERS, was published in 1899 to great acclaim. Other books featuring the Bastable children followed, and a series of magical fantasy books, including FIVE CHILDREN AND IT also became very popular. THE RAILWAY CHILDREN was first published monthly in the LONDON MAGAZINE in 1905, and published as a book in 1906 and has been in print ever since.
Four British children acquire a magic carpet and embark on a series of adventures, most of which don't turn out as planned. Although the style and setting are dated, the writing is witty and displays a genuine, timeless sympathy with childish sensibilities. Ward's reading is something short of fully voiced but is very listenable. Her voice is pleasant; her tone and pacing are good. Don't use this selection to recruit new audiobook fans from the ranks of Saturday morning cartoon devotees. But the child who is ready for rich language, a slow pace, and gentle humor will find it a pleasant diversion. J.N. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine
--This text refers to the
Audio Cassette
edition.