The Railway Children: The Complete Children's Classics Collection

Edith Nesbit (1858-1924) was a British author and poet best known for her children's literature, including The Railway Children, Five Children and It and The Phoenix and the Carpet. Nesbit was born in London and spent much of her childhood moving between different parts of the country due to her father's work as an agricultural chemist. Nesbit began her writing career as a poet and was associated with the Symbolist movement. She later turned her attention to children's literature, drawing inspiration from her own experiences as a mother and her interest in the supernatural and magical worlds. Nesbit's writing was known for its humour, wit and imaginative storytelling, and she was one of the first authors to introduce a contemporary and realistic setting to children's literature. In addition to her writing, Nesbit was also an active member of the Fabian Society, a socialist organization that advocated for social and political change in Britain. Her political views were reflected in her writing, which often included themes of social justice and equality. Nesbit's works have been praised for their enduring appeal and their ability to engage and entertain readers of all ages. Her stories have been adapted into numerous films, television series and stage productions, and her influence on children's literature can be seen in the works of many contemporary authors. Nesbit's legacy as a pioneering and influential writer has continued to be celebrated and appreciated by readers around the world.

 • "Her child characters were remarkable in her day because they are so entirely human. They are intelligent, vain, aggressive, humorous, witty, cruel, compassionate... in fact, they are like adults." --Gore Vidal
"Stand firm'" said Peter, "and wave like mad!"' They were not railway children to begin with. When their Father mysteriously leaves home Roberta (everyone calls her Bobbie), Phyllis and Peter must move to a small cottage in the countryside with Mother. It is a bitter blow to leave their London home, but soon they discover the hills and valleys, the canal and of course, the railway. But with the thrilling rush and rattle and roar of the trains comes danger too. Will the brave trio come to the rescue? And most importantly, can they solve the disappearance of their Father? BACKSTORY: Find out all about steam trains and learn what it was really like to be a child in Edwardian times.