Based on Gordon Titcomb's song of the same name, THE LAST TRAIN is an elegiac tribute to a different era, when trains rumbled across the countryside and a man could work for the railroads all his life. Titcomb narrates gently, his subtle rural accent appropriate to the text. Authentic background sounds of train whistles and chirping country insects add atmosphere. Wendell Minor's detailed paintings are a gorgeous and evocative accompaniment—a spread about the MIDNIGHT FLYER, rendered in beautiful deep blues, shows the train speeding across the pages, engine smoke trailing behind and a wash of nighttime stars overhead. Listeners will especially appreciate the bonus at the end of the recording: Titcomb singing his song. Young train lovers will be fascinated.
Ages 4-6Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2010
Duration: 15 mins
Publisher: Live Oak Media
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Narrator Liam Aiken skillfully brings this series finale to a satisfying conclusion. Finally, Lemony believes he has answers to his many questions--but does he really? The story's train setting is unique and adds a thrilling sense of place as Stain'd-by-the-Sea is left far behind. Aiken presents the story's clever wordplay and vocabulary in a lively manner that will appeal to young listeners. Lemony must ascertain who murdered one of his heroes, librarian Dashiell Qwerty. Because he loves libraries, librarians, and books, Lemony's sadness is audibly apparent in Aiken's tone. As Lemony and his associates sift through clues, they share tidbits about their favorite authors and books. It's a challenging listen as the suspects continually shift. Aiken's best creation is Hangfire, whose sarcasm and creepy voice will keep listeners on edge.
Ages 8+Pub Date: Oct. 6, 2015
Duration: 5 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781478959656
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Murphy has used Robert Louis Stevenson's 1879 trip across America and entries from Stevenson's own journals to recreate this wonderful slice of Americana. Davidson's outstanding ability to capture the sound of early American voices makes this at once interesting and enjoyable for young listeners. Stevenson's horrendous experience crossing the Atlantic and his equally harrowing train trip across the United States are rendered in a style reminiscent of a great teacher or storyteller relaying a tale that modern Americans can barely imagine. Davidson splendidly enhances an interesting story with minimal dramatic flourishes. This excellent and easy way to learn American history is not to be missed.
(Ages 10+)Pub Date: Jan. 22, 1998
Duration: 2 hrs, 45 mins
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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