Set against the backdrop of World War II and the Korean War, Long Train Passing takes us to a time when teachers could change the world, when a stranger's help was graciously accepted and freely given, and a time when the promise of a bright future could capture the imagination and determination of any child.
The boy, his uncanny friend, the teacher, the fire. These are not spoilers. Read this story by Steven Wise then look for his short story volumes as well. Not all worthy readings have to be from an award or top ten list. There are TREASURES worthy of a bit of your precious time for reading that live below the radar of great acclaim. It is my passion to find and share such. Steven Wise is one such treasure. He lives in Columbia, MO. Has a job but makes time for his writing making me a happy reader.
When I began reading Long Train Passing, I thought it was lackluster and monotonous. However, as the story line unraveled progressively, I found something worthy of note. It is not the typical narrative set in the backdrop of World War II and the Korean War; it is something more intense, with flashbacks sporadically taking me to the past where touching scenes happened—poignant and deeper than the images of war. Here, I was caught unguarded by the painful reality that a father is capable of proscribing his son’s freedom and desire to discover himself, his gifts, his innate characteristics, and embrace what the world can offer to develop his very young life—and let him live for his dreams. Read full review at Bloodspots' Harbor.
I absolutely loved this book. There were many spelling errors but I knew what the writer was trying to say. This book spoke of forgiveness, patience, love and so much more. It was an easy read and I highly recommend it.