Train I Ride Paperback – April 3, 2018

I rarely read middle-grade novels, but when I do, I prefer those which deal with the more difficult themes such as WONDER and THE THING ABOUT JELLYFISH. For me, TRAIN I RIDE met that perfect sweet spot, just the right amount of bittersweet (incidentally, my favorite kind of chocolate), to make me hunger for more. There were light moments, and dark moments, moments in between, and moments when I choked up, glaring at the stupid ninja onions in the room. Rydr was extremely likeable in all her green-haired, self-deprecating precociousness; at times I wanted to reach into the book and hug her. I also loved the ragtag characters she encountered on the train, especially Neal the snack bar guy and Carlos. Ultimately, the end of the journey wasn't tied neatly by a cheery, bright bow, but I feel it was still a satisfying ending, one which to me felt hopeful, "The gray blanket that has been the sky for three days moves aside, like we've reached land's end and seen the sea of blue." In my own mind, I know that Rydr is going to be just fine. She has discovered poetry after all.

As an adult, I enjoy reading a good middle-grade novel. It takes me back to a time when I had the ability to spend a whole day reading. "Train I Ride" is less about the destination and all about the journey! It is a heartfelt novel that tackles difficult topics such as the loss of a parent, substance abuse, neglect, homelessness, and issues surrounding the foster care system- to name only a few. None of the issues are graphic or overtake the story, they are the backstory that surfaces as the book unfolds. In this novel, a young girl is being uprooted from her grandmother, who can no longer care for her, and is being shuffled to an unknown relative's home via Amtrak. I love that the author allowed "Rydr" to choose her own name. By not using her given name, the author's decision made her more "anyone's child". The harsh reality that any series of unfortunate events could land any child in Rydr's situation. The book is well written and based solely on content I would recommend it for grade 6 and up. Most parents know their child's ability to absorb difficult material, so it could suit a younger reader. I think this book would be fantastic for middle-grade, high-school, and even adults who volunteer in the homeless communities or mentor youths. Also, I now would like to take a trip on Amtrak. Never thought about it before, but now it is on my bucket list.

After I read this book the first time, I knew I needed to read it with my seventh graders. Yes, I said I needed to read this book with 150 adolescent boys and girls. So glad I did. So glad I wrote and kept a detailed plan, we're going to read it again this spring.Paul Mosier's story and characters captivated my students and every adult I gifted with a copy. My "kids" rode the train, cheered and jeered the characters, and were begging for a sequel. They wrote letters to the author because they wanted to communicate with him. He was a real person who took the time to write a story they loved. These kids are looking for his next book. (I am so embarrassed I have reviewed it sooner)

I love this book! I began it and was interested immediately because it deals with the Amtrak route my husband and I take from Garden City, KS, to Chicago one or times a year to see our sons. What fun to read about the different stops and adventures this young girl has along the way. We find the people who work on the crews are usually delightful and kind, with one or two notable exceptions - but they are thankfully rare.It was good to see a book about people who are kind in contrast to those "little minds" which are not so kind.Thanks for a good read, Mr. Mosier!

A beautifully eloquent young adult novel, a genuine and heartfelt narrative.Author Paul Mosier is one of the most exceptional writers I've ever had the privilege to read. His stories are all so very original, if not always easy to read. Train I Ride is no exception. It follows the story of Rydr, who is journeying from California to Chicago, from the grandmother who is no longer able to care for her to a relative she's never met.This is not a happy-go-lucky story, but it is one that is uplifting, encouraging, and inspirational. Highly recommended for readers of all ages.

Author understand the 12-15 year old. Authentic voice. Appropriate for 8 the grade class read. Engaging from first page. Much to discuss. Character has me thinking. She wants to engage with the world, see, experience. And she can take care of herself because she has learned, on her own, that the world matches her vibration.

I'm a big fan of Train Songs (especially Todd Snider's 'Play a Train Song') and the title had that obvious influence. It had that same kind of melancholy that I expected, and ended with well earned joy and hope. The work itself, although for young adults, worked for me. Passed it on to my niece for her to enjoy, and she thanked me. Highly recommended.

This book is beautiful. Wonderfully written, a little bit heartbreaking, but very hopeful as well. When I first read it, it was a library book, which was a loss for me because there were so many parts I wanted to highlight and revisit.Looking forward to rereading (and I don't reread many books). Highly recommend!