"Diamond's debut is lighthearted and charming, but also offers believable personalities and a serious message about loving oneself." - Kirkus Reviews
"Illustrator Brayer (Where Dolphins Dive, 2015, etc.) helps tell the story with lovely, well-detailed, and emotionally expressive illustrations that feature appealing washes of watercolor." - Kirkus Reviews
"A good message about self-acceptance, backed by charming images." - Kirkus Reviews
Every day, children flock to Train Station Park, a special place where they can take train rides. Tipton was the very first train at the park, but now he's getting old. His paint has faded, and he tips from side to side when he travels along the rails-which is how he got his name.
When the park manager brings in Jack, a shiny, new train, Tipton feels old and useless. Even though the children still want to ride him, Tipton sulks and feels sorry for himself. Why would the children want him when they could ride Jack? Tipton decides to run away.
Traveling through a secret tunnel, Tipton arrives in Old Town, home to all kinds of old appliances and machines. There he's reminded that he's still loved, and can still make children happy. But is this enough to convince him to return to Train Station Park, and will the children really love him as much as they did when he was newly built and fast?
Train Station Park reminds children that being old or different isn't a bad thing, and everyone has something special to offer the world.
About the Author: Abby Diamond was born in West Hills, California, in the West San Fernando Valley-a suburb on the outskirts of Los Angeles. She grew up there with her brother, Jon.
Abby earned a BA in child development with a concentration in primary education and a minor in psychology. She is married, a mother, and currently lives in South Carolina USA with her family.
