Illustrated by John Mantha; published by Kids Can Press.

This is the story of Canada’s first transcontinental railway — the CPR, completed on November 7, 1885. It was one of the longest, most expensive, most challenging engineering feats in the world. This book tells the dramatic tale of the people who built, operated and rode the Canadian Pacific Railway. It documents the enormous challenges they faced and how the railway evolved over time to help shape the Canada we know today.

• Winner, Information Book Award, Children’s Literature Roundtables of Canada
• Our Choice starred selection, Canadian Children’s Book Centre
• Silver Birch Award, shortlist, Ontario Library Association
• Red Cedar Award, shortlist
• Alcuin Society Book Design Award, Honorable Mention

“This book is a blueprint for the successful Canadian history book for kids.” Times Colonist

“A book for fans either of Canadian history or trains. It documents the mammoth task of constructing a railway across an unknown and unfriendly terrain. It talks honestly about the issues involved and the consequences of the decisions made that still have ramifications today.” Canadian Materials Magazine

“Deborah Hodge, whose grandfathers worked for the CPR, communicates a real love of her topic.” St. Catherine’s Standard