GROSSMAN, Lev, The Golden Swift (The Silver Arrow #2), Bloomsbury, July 2022, 263 pp., RRP $14.99 (pbk), ISBN 9781526647641
This is the second book in Grossman’s magical train series which began with The Silver Arrow. The story picks up a year after the previous book, with Kate and Tom preparing for their next shift as conductors on the Great Intercontinental Railway. There’s just one hitch – Uncle Herbert who gives them their itinerary which involves delivering animal passengers to their rightful habitats, has gone missing.
Then, the pair are almost rammed off track by another train, The Golden Swift, which is also operated by child conductors. They end up uniting forces with those conductors, Jag and Wren, who are attempting to reverse climate change by returning endangered species to places where they’ve become extinct. But their well-meaning ways lead to trouble for the animals who eventually rise up against the children.
This climate fiction which is fast-paced and covers many countries and animals is likely to appeal to enviro-conscious readers. It includes one to two retro-style monochrome illustrations per chapter.
While the messaging felt a little heavy-handed, perhaps it’s one that will resonate strongly with young people. As a hive of bees tell Kate: Who knows, your generation could be the one that changes everything. Remember that, when you feel despair. It’s not impossible. You could be the ones.
Reviewed by Heather Gallagher