Orphan Trains: Taking the Rails to a New Life

Description

Discover the true story of seven orphans who were settled with families in the Midwest by the Children's Aid Society. AGES: 9-12 AUTHOR: Rebecca Langston-George is a middle school language arts teacher who also trains teachers in writing instruction. Her articles, poetry and puzzles have appeared in many children's magazines. When she's not at the keyboard Rebecca volunteers for the local chapter of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI). She is also a past president of the Kern Reading Association. SELLING POINTS: Tells the story of Reverend Charles Loring Brace, who started the trains, as well as some of the key social workers who helped settle the kids on Midwestern farms Heart-wrenching personal stories of 7 of the children who rode the orphan trains and what happened to them after they grew up Includes historical photos of the children Illustrated

Although many orphan train titles are available, this is particularly balanced by honestly portraying and discussing the system, children, recipients, and outcomes in context. Chapters alternate between relaying the stories of children placed with Western families and information regarding the orphan train system. . . .Although meant for middle level readers, this novel's content will interest all ages.-- "VOYA" Teachers and parents, if you're looking for a narrative nonfiction chapter book, this title...is a good choice. Not only is it well-written and moving, it's about a little-known piece of American history when orphan children were relocated to the midwest. These seven stories are sometimes heartbreaking with both happiness and sadness. I think most kids will find the children's emotions relatable.-- "Imagination Soup"