The Little Engine That Could

Author: Watty Piper

Illustrator: George and Doris Hauman

Publishing information: (Grosset & Dunlap; Complete original ed , March 1, 1978, Ages 4-8)

Number of Pages: 48 pages

Genre: Fiction

Summary of Plot:

This story is about a little engine defying all odds. For starters a train was carrying lots of old fashioned toys and food. It stopped suddenly and could go no further. The toys asked another train “Shiny New Engine” for a ride. He was too important so he refused. They asked another train “Big Strong Engine” for a ride. Again it thought itself too important to lend a hand. They turned to an older train “Rusty old Engine” for a ride, it simply couldn’t. At last they turned to a “Little Blue Engine”. Even though it was little it still offered to try. Little by little, hill over hill, the “Little Blue Engine” chugged away. In the end the thought, “I think I can”, turned to “I knew I could”! The “Little Engine”, made it.

My Reaction to the book:

This is my favorite Children’s book! I love it. I love its message and the analogy of the “Little Engine”

Potential Problems:
            The other trains refused to help the others. They were too proud.
           
Recommendations:

This is a great encouraging story. Its message will inspire people to reach new heights. It certainly has helped me in my life. Its message has helped me more than any other children's book. I would highly recommend this book to anyone.