Levy brings to light a true loaves and fishes story for the modern era. A train full of food donated by American children for hungry European children leaves California with 20 cars and swells to 500 cars of food by the time it reaches the Atlantic. This uplifting and timely story is a perfect example of “looking for the helpers” in a crisis, of Americans reaching out across borders to help people in need, even when those people speak a different language and live overseas. It serves as a reminder for our times of how we are all connected in a global community. Levy’s writing is vibrant and engaging, and energetic movement fills every page of Boris Kulikov’s illustrations. Children in the artwork stare straight into the eyes of the reader, as if inviting us to join in their generosity. A true story that will inspire children and adults alike, this book serves as a reminder that every one of us can make a difference, and no act of kindness is ever too small.
The Friendship Train by Debbie Levy, (List Price: $20.99, Bloomsbury Children’s Books, 9781547608027, June 2025)
Reviewed by Amanda Grell, Pearl’s Books in Fayetteville, Arkansas