After The Train

Peter Liebig is a 13 year-old who lives in Rolfen, West Germany. World War II has ended and rebuilding is well underway. Peter’s dad is an architect who is restoring historic St. Mary’s Evangelical Lutheran Church. His mother teaches school. Peter believed Rolfen was a perfect place to grow up until he discovered a packet of letters in his mothers’ bureau drawer. The contents of the letters turned Peter’s life upside down.

BTSYA Reader (41):
After the Train is a story of learning self-acceptance while also accepting others. The author has incorporated lessons about the holocaust and antisemitism in the form of stories told to Peter by different characters throughout the story. My favorite aspect of the story is that it shows that heroes come in all forms. It gives a glimpse into how people felt and the type of things they were dealing with after World War II in Germany. I don’t feel the book had a wow factor, the story was slow and lacked adventure or excitement. It’s a good read for anyone interested in history. I recommend the book to ages 10-13. I wouldn’t buy this book but if you find it in the library check it out.

Parent / Educator Perspective:
This is an exceptional book. Gloria Whelan is an award-winning author. After the Train is what I believe is a piece of children's literature as opposed to children's "books."

This story is flawless and Whelan's ability to keep the reader glued to the page is exceptional.

None.