10+ Best Train Books for 10-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Choo-choo! Are you on the lookout for the perfect train books for 10-year-olds? Whether your young reader is a budding train enthusiast or just loves thrilling stories on rails, you've come to the right place. Dive into our curated selection of train books designed to captivate and educate. Keep reading to discover our top picks that promise to keep those pages turning!

Fun Train Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Boundless by Kenneth Oppel
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story follows a young boy on an epic journey aboard The Boundless, the longest and most magnificent train ever built. As he travels, he encounters various dangers and adventures, including a traveling circus, a notorious criminal, and even sasquatches.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's packed with action and imaginative scenarios that keep readers engaged from start to finish. It also introduces elements of historical context about the railway's development.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and fans of historical tales mixed with a dash of fantasy.

• The Railway Children by E. Nesbit, illustrated by C. E. Brock
  • Genre(s): Classic, Adventure
  • Synopsis: After their father mysteriously disappears, three children and their mother move to a house near the railway where they befriend the local station master and embark on several adventures, helping to prevent accidents and even saving a train.
  • Why we recommend this book: This classic tale teaches values like resourcefulness, perseverance, and the importance of family. It’s a gentle introduction to more complex themes wrapped in an engaging story.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy classic stories with moral lessons and a bit of mystery.

• Mystery on the LEGO Express by Trey King, illustrated by Sean Wang
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This book combines the fun of LEGOs with a thrilling mystery on a train. Readers follow several LEGO characters as they try to solve a jewel theft aboard the LEGO Express.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages problem-solving and attention to detail while being incredibly fun, thanks to the familiar and beloved LEGO theme.
  • Perfect for: LEGO enthusiasts and young detectives who love solving puzzles and mysteries.

• Locomotive by Brian Floca
  • Genre(s): Historical, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: This beautifully illustrated book provides an in-depth look at the early days of America's transcontinental railroad through the journey of a family traveling from Omaha to Sacramento in 1869.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers detailed insights into the history of trains in America, complemented by stunning illustrations that capture the era's essence. It's both educational and visually captivating.
  • Perfect for: Young historians and train buffs interested in America's industrial age and the marvels of early train travel.

• Trains: Steaming! Pulling! Huffing! by Patricia Hubbell, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy
  • Genre(s): Picture Book, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: This book presents colorful and lively illustrations of different types of trains and what they do, from freight trains to passenger trains, all portrayed in a fun and engaging way.
  • Why we recommend this book: The rhythmic, lively text and playful illustrations make learning about trains an enjoyable experience. It's great for encouraging an interest in mechanical subjects.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are fascinated by trains and enjoy lively, rhythmic reads.

Educational Train Books for 10-Year-Olds

• All Aboard! National Parks: A Wildlife Primer by Haily Meyers and Kevin Meyers
  • Genre(s): Educational, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: This board book takes young readers on a train journey through various national parks across the United States, introducing them to the wildlife and scenic landscapes found in each.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Environmental awareness, animal and plant recognition, geographical knowledge
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines the excitement of train travel with educational content about America's natural wonders, making learning fun and engaging.
  • Perfect for: Nature lovers and young explorers interested in trains and wildlife.

• Train! by Judi Abbot
  • Genre(s): Picture Book, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Follows the adventures of a little elephant who loves trains more than anything else. He goes on a journey to fulfill his dream of driving one, learning about different types of trains along the way.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of different train types, following dreams, perseverance
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming story that encourages children to pursue their passions and teaches them about various trains in a fun, accessible way.
  • Perfect for: Young dreamers and train enthusiasts who enjoy stories of adventure and determination.

• The Great Train Journey by Tracey Hawkins, illustrated by Tom Jellett
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: A young boy embarks on a thrilling train journey across different countries and historical periods, learning about the significant roles trains have played in various cultures and industries.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, cultural awareness, geographical diversity
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a dynamic way to learn history and geography through the lens of train travel, making educational topics exciting and relatable.
  • Perfect for: History buffs and young adventurers who are curious about the world and its past.

• Engineer Academy: Are You Ready for the Challenge? by Steve Martin, illustrated by Nila Aye
  • Genre(s): Activity Book, Educational
  • Synopsis: This interactive book challenges readers to complete tasks and projects related to train engineering, from designing tracks to running a railway company.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, engineering principles, creativity
  • Why we recommend this book: It actively involves children in learning about train mechanics and operations through hands-on activities and puzzles.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring engineers and problem solvers who love interactive learning and hands-on challenges.

• Trains: A Pop-Up Railroad Book by Robert Crowther
  • Genre(s): Pop-Up Book, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: Features intricately designed pop-ups of various trains throughout history, providing factual information about each type and their uses.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge of trains, mechanical understanding, visual learning
  • Why we recommend this book: The pop-up elements make learning about trains a visually stimulating and interactive experience, appealing to both visual learners and kinetic learners.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy visually engaging books and those with an interest in mechanics and history.

Challenging Train Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Great Railway Bazaar by Paul Theroux
  • Genre(s): Travel, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: Paul Theroux recounts his adventures and the fascinating characters he meets on a four-month journey by train through Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book offers a rich tapestry of cultures and experiences, presented through sophisticated language and complex insights, which can expand a young reader's understanding of the world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a vivid portrayal of various cultures and the unique experience of train travel, enriching a young reader's knowledge and inspiring a sense of adventure.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers interested in travel and cultural diversity.

• The Man Who Loved Trains by James D. Porterfield
  • Genre(s): Biography, History
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of Richard Jay, a key figure in American railroad history, detailing his passion for railroads and his efforts to preserve and celebrate their history.
  • Why this book is challenging: It includes detailed historical contexts and technical descriptions of trains and railroading, which require higher-level reading comprehension and critical thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers an in-depth look at a pivotal period in transportation history through the life of a significant figure, which can inspire respect for historical achievements and technological advancements.
  • Perfect for: History enthusiasts and fans of biographies.

• Ghost Train to the Eastern Star by Paul Theroux
  • Genre(s): Travel, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: On the tracks of his classic The Great Railway Bazaar, Theroux retraces the journey with new insights and encounters, exploring changes and constants in the world.
  • Why this book is challenging: Theroux's reflections on societal changes and personal growth present complex themes that challenge young readers to think critically about the world and their place in it.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages a deeper understanding of global issues and personal reflection, all through the engaging lens of train travel.
  • Perfect for: Advanced readers who enjoy deep stories and exploring different cultures.

• The Last Train to Zona Verde by Paul Theroux
  • Genre(s): Travel, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: Theroux travels through Africa by train, exploring its landscapes, cultures, and the impact of modernity on remote societies.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book tackles complex social and environmental issues through the detailed observation of different African societies, requiring mature comprehension skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a profound look at the contrasts between urban and traditional lifestyles and the challenges facing modern Africa, offering a broad, real-world perspective.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in social studies and environmental issues.

• Strangers on a Train by Patricia Highsmith
  • Genre(s): Thriller, Psychological Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel explores the consequences of a fateful meeting between two strangers on a train, leading to a series of suspenseful and dramatic events.
  • Why this book is challenging: It delves into complex psychological themes and moral dilemmas, challenging readers to consider the implications of choices and the nature of guilt.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping psychological thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats while encouraging them to think about deeper ethical questions.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy suspense and are ready to explore more sophisticated themes.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the exciting world of train books and you're around 10 years old, you're in for a thrilling ride. To make the most out of your reading adventure, here are some exercises that can help you develop great reading habits. Not only will these make your reading time more enjoyable, but they'll also help you retain what you learn and understand the stories better.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much time you'll spend reading each day or how many pages you want to read.
  • How it helps: Keeps you focused and turns reading into a regular habit.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a special spot in your home where you can read without interruptions.
  • How it helps: Enhances your concentration and makes reading a special part of your day.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s comfortable and has good lighting.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family members who are interested.
  • How it helps: Improves your understanding and memory of the story.
  • Tips: Try to express what feelings and thoughts the book evokes in you.

• Draw Scenes from the Book
  • What it is: Sketch your favorite scenes or characters from the book.
  • How it helps: Boosts creativity and helps you visualize the story better.
  • Tips: Don't worry about perfect drawing skills; it’s all about your interpretation.

• Predict the Plot
  • What it is: Guess what might happen next after a chapter ends.
  • How it helps: Enhances your analytical skills and keeps you engaged with the story.
  • Tips: Write down your predictions and check later to see if you were right.

• Use a Dictionary
  • What it is: Look up words that are new to you.
  • How it helps: Expands your vocabulary and improves your understanding of the book.
  • Tips: Keep a dictionary handy, or use a dictionary app while reading.

• Retell the Story
  • What it is: Summarize the book in your own words, either orally or in writing.
  • How it helps: Improves your comprehension and communication skills.
  • Tips: Imagine you’re telling the story to someone who hasn’t read the book.

These exercises are not just about making reading fun but also about enriching your experience as you explore the fascinating world of trains through books. By incorporating these habits, you'll not only enjoy your reading time more but also gain deeper insights into the stories. So, all aboard the reading express—let your imagination soar as you chug through each page!