The Boxcar Children is both the name of a book and the name of the series of books that followed it. The first book, which gives its name to the series, was written as a stand-alone work of fiction for children. It was so popular however, that the author was urged to continue the story of her beloved characters in further books. The author Gertrude Chandler Warner went on to write a total of 19 books for the series. Even these were so immensely successful that the publisher employed other authors to continue the series, and a total of 160 books were written for the series.
I highly recommend the first book. This children’s adventure story is a work of art. It features the difficulties faced by a family of four siblings who are orphaned and need to find ways to survive on their own. Their story is full of kindness and courage. We see each of them rise to the occasion to take responsibility for one another.
Despite the theme of the book, this is an uplifting adventure, that ignites children’s imagination, inspires them to dream about solving problems and becoming independent. Children find this story exciting. The characters of the book have a dignity that reminds one of 19th century North American ideals. There is a happy ending of course. The children are reunited with their grandfather, who happens to be extremely wealthy and loving.
As regards the rest of the books (written by the original author), they are worth reading if your child loved the first one and is eager to have more adventures alongside his new friends. These follow-on books are not as special as the original, but they are solid, well written children’s adventure stories, filled with interesting personalities, descent honourable behaviour, and have a lovely ethic about them. They are less brilliant than the original book as they are all written on a template for adventure and the adult reader will find them all much the same.The formula works fine well on the intended readers however. For any child who likes adventure, these are harmless, fun stories, full of educated activities that inspire children.
Readers will learn about geography, history, natural science and archeology while all the while being enthralled by the adventure. Can be read to a six year old, and a ten year old can read them on their own.
Regarding the second part of the series, written by other authors, I have nothing to say. Mrs. Warner did and excellent job and wrote enough to keep young readers happy.
