Locomotion
Alastair Steele
Illustrated by Ryo Takemasa
Ages 9 to 11
Paperback
Buy the book
05 March 2026
Imprint: Big Picture Press
Synopsis
A stunningly illustrated tribute to all things railway, Locomotion celebrates the ingenuity of trains past, present and future.
From early steam engines through to the modern high-speed trains of today, Locomotion is a spectacular look at the history of trains and railways throughout the world, and the wonder and escapism they evoke. Packed full of iconic trains including the famous Flying Scotsman and the grand Orient Express as well as encompassing scenic journeys like the majestic Trans-Siberian railway, Locomotion makes a stunning gift or reference book for train lovers of all ages.
Beautiful artwork by the award-winning artist Ryo Takemasa makes this book one that can be enjoyed over and over again.
From early steam engines through to the modern high-speed trains of today, Locomotion is a spectacular look at the history of trains and railways throughout the world, and the wonder and escapism they evoke. Packed full of iconic trains including the famous Flying Scotsman and the grand Orient Express as well as encompassing scenic journeys like the majestic Trans-Siberian railway, Locomotion makes a stunning gift or reference book for train lovers of all ages.
Beautiful artwork by the award-winning artist Ryo Takemasa makes this book one that can be enjoyed over and over again.
Details
05 March 2026
64 pages
9781835874318
Imprint: Big Picture Press
Reviews
“A delightful book for any curious young person in their early teens. . . The narrative compellingly describes the likely future trends with the advent of vastly superior trains of the future, all wonderfully illustrated. This stunning book was a delight to review. The quality of the illustrations is amazing, it is clearly a publication that had to have been a labour of love.”Christopher Power, Children's Books Ireland
“[A] spectacular exploration of the history of trains. . . Brought to life by the beautiful and atmospheric retro-inspired illustrations of award-winning artist Ryo Takemasa, this fascinating pictorial journey takes in famous icons of the railway world.”Pam Norfolk, Yorkshire Evening Post
“Immersively illustrated . . . With vibrant, stylish artwork by Ryo Takemasa, this flapped paperback non-fiction book for 9-11 year olds shows how design and technology have changed over time, making it a strong visual guide for primary school collections focused on rail travel and transport history.”Tom Tolkien, The School Reading List
“Train fans will enjoy the sections highlighting great world journeys.”Absolutely Education, Absolutely Education
