After the Train

Though put in a fictional context, After the Train reads like an incredibly informative and compelling look at the aftermath of one of history’s darkest times. It shows the evils of anti-Semitism and educates the reader on heroes of that time. But more than that, it is a story of a boy, an individual, and how a shocking secret changes the way he looks at life around him and how he regards himself. It is a fast-paced read and very gripping. I would definitely recommend it!

Readers follow a German boy named Peter and his friends through their various adventures after the end of World War II. All of the characters in the story are very relatable which creates realistic dialogue and emotions through out the book. The story becomes even more engaging as readers delve into the deep thoughts and questions of Peter’s mind to find out the truth about his life and ultimately his identity.

After the Train is an eye-opening look at the prejudices and feelings in 1955 post-war Germany.

I found this book very intriguing. Not only was the world split in two after WWII, but a child’s life, too. Peter’s journey of finding out who he truly is can easily be applied to current life situations. I love the author’s descriptions of Peter’s life and town. Gloria Whelan describes things in details I can visualize. It was a hard book to put down.

This is a wonderful book full of twists, turns, and contradictions.

I absolutely loved reading After the Train. The story was amazing--it wove childhood concerns with a German boy’s life, friendships, family, church & town reconstruction, and a secret. I found it very interesting when locations and historical facts were mentioned throughout the book, and these things could interest children in pulling out maps and checking into other events. The issues covered in this book would be great to spark discussions at school and at home. Children and parents reading this book will not want to put it down. After the Train touches on a subject that is still relevant today and should not be forgotten. It does so in a way that will make boys, girls, teachers, and families read this and perhaps more of Gloria Whelan’s books! Make sure you read this book!

After the Train, by Gloria Whelan, was a must read! This book about a teenaged boy in Germany after WWII is a story that would reinforce this historical time. The main character, Peter, is like many kids in school--wondering about the importance of events that took place when he was too small to make a difference. By reading this book, children and adults can experience this time period and see how it relates to those affected by the war. It’s different because so many books are about the Jews during the war, and After the Train gives a different viewpoint. I would highly recommend reading this book, buying a copy for home, and having it available at the libraries and classrooms. It was excellent!

After the Train is a wonderful tale set in Germany during post World War II. Readers will be entertained throughout this story of belonging, friendship, and finding oneself.

This was a great story! Peter is loveable and charming as he comes of age in After the Train. This book is rich in history, it has a great story line and gives you great insight in not so great a time in world history. I recommend this book to all young readers!

After the Train was a riveting and emotional story that wouldn't let me put it down. A person of any religion can find a way to identify with Peter's angst and confusion at finding out that he isn't who he thinks he is. A parent or child would both be able to feel the pain, and resolution of the characters of the book. I recommend this book to any child, and encourage the parents to read along too!