Angus Rides the Goods Train

by Alan Durant, Chris Riddell (Illustrations)

A thought-provoking tale about a boy who realises he can help change the world.

When Angus boards the goods train, laden with milk, honey, and rice, he's full of excitement as the driver speeds across land and sea. But why won't the train stop for those who are hungry and thirsty? What can Angus do?

This moral classic is beautifully written by Alan Durant (author of Always and Forever ) with stunning illustrations by Chris Riddell.

Genres: Picture Books

32 pages, Paperback

First published January 15, 2004

About the author

Alan Durant is the author of books for a wide age-range, from picture books such as Burger Boy to top-end teenage thrillers (Blood, Flesh and Bones). Having worked as a copywriter at Walker Books, he is now a full-time author.

He's married, with three children and lives just outside London. He does a lot of school visits throughout the UK and abroad and also runs writing workshops.

Reviews

[Phoebe Ledster · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such an important and imaginative story! The illustrations truly bring the story to life and add such character to the book- often seen in Chris Riddell’s drawings. The narrative has immense value to it and is important to share with children. The fictitious setting of the book brings forward crucial and relatable issues in such a fun, beautiful and touching way. Definitely one to be shared with children to explore one of life’s key values: compassion.

[Helen Byrne]

This is a great picture book full of wonderful illustrations, which relate well to the story and show the magical aspect of it. The pictures are vibrant and colourful and would appeal to children. One night Angus dreams that he joins a goods train full of milk, honey, rice and water. He is extremely excited as they speed across land and over sea to a very important place far away. They meet thirsty trees, hungry bears, a mother and crying baby and a lost girl, but the driver refuses to stop until they reach their destination, which is a king’s home, with food for him and his guests. There is too much food for them to eat alone so Angus takes control of the goods train and goes back to feed the hungry and thirsty people he met along the way. This makes Angus full of joy and makes him want to drive the goods train so he can feed the hungry and give water to those who are thirsty. This is a story that a teacher could read aloud to children in year two. It would be a brilliant story to explain how we share the world’s resources in a way children would understand. It could also be useful when explaining to children about Red Nose Day and why we raise money for charities. It would teach children that they can all make a difference and help people no matter how young they are. There is a great lesson to be learned from this story.

[Emily Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book really excites me, primarily because of the important issues it touches. Whilst being perfect for the 5-7 age range, it masterfully deals with the problem of the wealth gap between the rich and poor, as well as the topic of wealth distribution. Many would not dream of introducing these subjects into children's literature but Durant has, and in the most fantastic way. His illustrations bring the story to life, and his style of writing is engaging. I would even suggest that it prompts important discussion on poverty and wealth distribution. An important, provoking book about the injustice of some having less than others.

[Francesca Pashby · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my favourite picture books of all time, initially picked up because my son was named Angus! A story of compassion and humanity, with (as always) breath-taking illustrations by the ever wonderful Chris Riddell.

[Jimmy Rhodes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the message of this book. The language really gave it an imagination that was incredible.
A great read out loud book.

[Tom Evans]

Love anything with Chris Riddell involved. Good for prompting discussion and introducing what might be a complicated idea.

[Chloe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing picture book for KS2, one of my favourites.
Thought provoking topic, would fit in well as a starter for a Jigsaw or P4C lesson.
Lovely illustrations

[Angus Keane · Rating 5 out of 5]

good, im Angus and i liked trains and helping people and keeping big fat conductors from being a total dirty cun ts