All Aboard the 'Toyland Express' Saturday
Essex Steam Train & Riverboat is inviting the community to join with it to celebrate release of the newest Can You See What I See? book, called Toyland Express. It is the latest book from award-winning author, photographer, and part-time Essex resident Walter Wick. On Saturday, from 1:30 to 4:40 p.m., drop by River Valley Junction to meet Wick. Signed copies of the book will be available.
Inspired by long-lost toys of his childhood, Wick's Toyland Express Wick takes young readers on a special journey in. This search-and-find picture book begins in a toy maker's workshop where the train is first created, then follows its toy-filled journey through many playful changes and, eventually, into the attic. It comes out again many years later, however, to be rediscovered and reinvented by another child.
This sentimental story can be combined with a Santa Special or North Pole Express ride. The book is also the perfect gift for those special train lovers on holiday lists.
The children's book experts from Scholastic Book Clubs and Scholastic Book Fairs have selected Toyland Express as a top pick for one of the most popular books this holiday season. It is also the inspiration for the holiday window display at the Scholastic Store in New York City, viewable through Dec. 31. The store window takes families back to favorite childhood holiday memories as they look inside a 3-D toy shop from the 1950s with original toys and props from Wick's studio, including miniature figurines, vintage teddy bears, dolls, and the beloved Toyland Express toy train.
The Valley Railroad Company and its Essex Steam Train & Riverboat offers two special tours during this season, Santa Special and North Pole Express.