How to Train a Train | Jason Carter Eaton & John Rocco

How to Train a Train

Extended Synopsis

Finding advice on caring for a dog, a cat, a fish, or even a dinosaur is easy. But what if somebody’s taste in pets runs to the more mechanical kind? What about those who prefer cogs and gears over feathers and fur? How to Train a Train is the ultimate guidebook for children who dream of hearing the cheerful call of a train whistle instead of the squeal of a guinea pig, and who don't mind a smudge of soot on their cheek instead of puppy slobber.

In this highly inventive and spectacularly illustrated picture book, kids who love locomotives will discover everything they need to know about finding, keeping, and training their very own pet train. From tracking wild freight trains in the open plains to soothing a skittish monorail, readers are treated to a delightfully absurd premise executed with deadpan humor. The book covers essential pet care topics, including what trains like to eat, where they sleep, and the best tricks to teach them—laying the tracks for a long and happy friendship.

Brought to life by John Rocco's full-color, highly expressive digital paintings, this story perfectly captures the monumental scale of the locomotives while imbuing them with lovable, puppy-like personalities. It is a wildly imaginative adventure that is sure to have young train enthusiasts declaring "All aboard!" for bedtime.

Reader Targeting

• Young children and toddlers who are fascinated by trains, railways, and large vehicles.
• Parents and educators looking for humorous, engaging read-aloud books that encourage imagination and pretend play.
• Fans of unique pet stories that blend the everyday responsibilities of pet ownership with fantastical elements.

Accolades & Awards

• Celebrated for its brilliant and hilariously deadpan approach to the classic "pet care" manual format.
• Features highly acclaimed, expressive artwork by Caldecott Honoree John Rocco.

Author & Illustrator Biography

Jason Carter Eaton is a celebrated author of numerous children's books known for their offbeat humor and boundless imagination. He loves writing stories that turn the ordinary into the extraordinary, captivating young readers with his unique narrative voice.

John Rocco is an internationally recognized, bestselling author and illustrator. Best known for his Caldecott Honor-winning book Blackout and for creating the cover art for Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson and the Olympians series, Rocco's vibrant and dynamic illustrations bring mechanical beasts to life with incredible warmth and personality.

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