The Boxcar Children

Gr 2–4—This animated film version of the beloved book by Gertrude Chandler Warner thoroughly captures the spirit of the first installment in this classic series. Following the story line of the text version, the film begins when the wandering and homeless children—orphans Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny—find shelter from an evening storm in a warm, inviting bakery. However, the older siblings overhear the baker's wife making plans to send young Benny to a children's home, so the four run away. They continue to search for a dry place to hide out, all the while fearing they will be discovered and sent to live with their only remaining relative, a grandfather, whom they believe to be cruel and heartless. They eventually come upon an old abandoned boxcar in the forest and transform it into a makeshift home where they live until young Violet gets sick and they must seek help. The kids are ultimately reunited with their estranged grandfather, who turns out to be kindhearted and loving, and not cruel at all. The animation features warm colors and vibrant, lively scenes throughout, along with accompanying music that enhances the early-20th century setting. Wonderfully narrated and featuring the voices of Jadon Sand, Joey King, Mackenzie Foy, Zachary Gordon, and veteran actors J.K. Simmons and Charlie Sheen, this is a wonderful production that both fans of the series and newcomers will enjoy.—Amy Joslyn, Fairport Public Library, Fairport, NY