The Railway Children, by E. Nesbit

This story is a great book to read as a family. E. Nesbit used to be one of my favorite authors.

Plot Summary: When Father is suddenly called away, Roberta, Peter, and Phyllis, and their mother must move away from London for some mysterious reason. They settle into the British countryside in a small, quiet house. When they discover the nearby railway line, and the friendly workers there, the children are happy living in their new home. But where is Father? Why did he leave? And is he ever coming back?

Discussions: This is one of my family's favorite books to listen to in the car, since it's interesting for a wide range of people. The writing is clear and simple, easily understood by the younger siblings, and the story and humor are developed enough for older siblings. 
     Roberta, also known as Bobbie, does most of the narration in The Railway Children. Bobbie is the oldest of the three children, a responsible, thoughtful girl. Most of the time, she thinks before she acts. Warmhearted and generous, she is the one who tries to get her brother's beloved steam engine model fixed.
    Peter, next in line, is impulsive and a little reckless. He considers himself the man of the family and responsible for their comfort, which results in a slightly shady method of providing them with enough coal. 
   Phyllis is the youngest, and usually is the one who gets in trouble by tripping and tearing or spilling something. But she always means very well. She always tries to be helpful, even though it sometimes turns out rather badly.
   Their Mother is a writer, who creates stories for children and makes their living solely by selling the stories. (The children believe her stories are the most wonderful ones in the world.) She supports the children in their desire to explore the surrounding countryside, although she worries a little about their safety. 
    The intrepid Roberta, Peter, and Phyllis roam the nearby countryside, and manage to run into all sorts of adventures, from saving a train from a terrible wreck to rescuing a boy who breaks his leg. They are befriended by an Old Gentleman, who helps the family out whenever he can. They learn about railways with the gruff porter Perks and plot to celebrate his birthday. Overall, they enjoy their new life in the British countryside by the railway.
     But they wonder, sometimes, just what has happened to their Father. They hear nothing from him, and Mother never speaks of him. Where is he? Will he ever return? Peter and Phyllis don't talk about it at all, but Roberta wonders about it. She's determined to find it out so she can support her Mother as best she can.
  
Overall: The Railway Children is a charming British story of family, friendship, and of course railways. A great choice to read or listen to as a family.

Note: If you have any books you'd like me to review, comment below! It can be either a book you love and just want to read a review of, or a book you haven't read and would like to see a review before you read it. Please do give me your suggestions!