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The Boxcar Children Beginning: The Aldens of Fair Meadow Farm Audiobook
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(3.29) - 28 listener ratings
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Publisher Description
Before they were the Boxcar Children, Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny Alden lived with their parents on Fair Meadow Farm.
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"Well-written and thoughtful prequel to the Boxcar Children series by Gertrude Chandler Warner. It answered all the questions I had as I read the stories growing up. How did the Aldens' parents die? Why didn't they want to live with their grandfather? Where were they going when they discovered the boxcar?"
— Heidi (5 out of 5 stars)
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“An approachable lead-in that serves to fill in the background both for confirmed fans and readers new to the series.
— Kirkus review -
“Fans will enjoy this picture of life 'before,'…”
— Publishers Weekly -
“Gently written, and harkening to a simpler time, this story will be an enjoyable family read and will serve as an easy-to-understand chapter book for emerging readers.”
— Library Journal
The Boxcar Children Beginning Listener Reviews
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" Wasn't quite as good as I expected it to be, considering it's the Boxcar Children and a story of how it all began before the first book. Guess I had too high expectations. "
— Ashley, 2/6/2014 -
" I think this adequately captures the spirit and tone of the original books. "
— Kate, 12/24/2013 -
" I would have absolutely LOVED this book as a 7-8 year old. Perfect for that age group! ...I loved all of the Boxcar Children at that age and this one would have been a favorite for sure. "
— Laura, 11/3/2013 -
" I didn't hate it. "
— Kate, 11/1/2013 -
" Sweet, but not amazing. "
— Janssen, 11/1/2013 -
" This short book tells the story of the Alden children "before they were the Boxcar Children". There's not much to it, but fans of the series will surely devour it. "
— Susan, 8/31/2013 -
" Might require this as class easy reader. Only way to get in this series as "current" "
— Marcie, 7/25/2013 -
" I thought the writing was not very good and the story pedantic. Disappointed:( "
— Allison, 3/12/2013 -
" Loved this beginning look of how things were before they were the Boxcar children. I may even revisit the old series as an adult now that I've read this book. Give this book a read! "
— Mellodi, 1/30/2013 -
" This was a really fun nostalgia piece for me because I loved the Boxcar Children as a child. MacLachlan was able to achieve the same loving tone and personality of the children. Also, I must, must, must go to the Boxcar Children Museum. "
— Michelle, 1/1/2013 -
" This story was wonderful...so believable, but the illustrations ruined the book. Why have such a touching story and print that reminded me of the original tale, then throw modern day, out of the era drawings on the pages? This spoiled the Alden family's story for me. "
— Deby, 12/18/2012 -
" This was a good book to begin, "The Boxcar Children" series. It is the story of the boxcar children before they become the boxcar children and their family life before they find their grandfather. "
— Debbie, 11/4/2012 -
" A simple but effective prequel to a beloved series. "
— Lisa, 11/1/2012
About Patricia MacLachlan
Patricia MacLachlan is the celebrated author of many timeless books for young readers, including Sarah, Plain and Tall, winner of the Newbery Medal.
About Tim Gregory
Tim Gregory has been a professional on stage, screen, and television since graduating from DePaul University, where he earned his master of fine arts degree. His portfolio includes many notable acting, directing, and writing projects, including work at the Ford’s Theatre in Washington, DC, the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta, and Steppenwolf Theatre in Chicago. He is also the founding artistic director of Provision Theater in Chicago and can be seen on HGTV’s New Spaces.