Stephen King’s latest foray into children’s literature features a rather eerie character: a talking train named Charlie the Choo Choo. This book, released under the pseudonym Beryl Evans, may not be your typical bedtime story.
Parents, are you seeking to enhance your nocturnal engagements with your child? Do you wish to swap serene slumber for a gripping tale at the witching hour? If your child has exhausted you with their fascination for Thomas the Tank Engine, King’s creation could be just the ticket to a more thrilling bedtime experience.
Meet Charlie the Choo Choo
In Charlie the Choo Choo, we meet a rather “gruff” locomotive—think psychopathic tendencies—with a disconcerting grin and lifeless eyes. He shares a bond with his conductor, Engineer Bob. However, when Bob’s superior, Mr. Briggs, delivers the news that Charlie is being retired to make way for a new diesel locomotive, the story takes a sinister turn. As Charlie rusts in the yard, he ponders his lost purpose and looming demise. Perhaps a fitting moment to tuck your little ones in with a cheerful reminder of life’s inevitable end.
Amazon lists the book as suitable for ages 4-8, but we might raise an eyebrow at that classification. This release serves as a promotional tie-in for King’s Dark Tower film adaptation, slated for release in February. The film features Idris Elba, which may influence your decision to catch it, although tickets aren’t available yet.
A Dark Connection
In The Waste Lands, the third book of the Dark Tower series, a character named Jake stumbles upon Charlie the Choo Choo, authored by the elusive Beryl Evans. As he gazes at the cover, Jake’s instinct tells him there’s something off about Charlie’s smile. “You look happy, but I think that’s just the mask you wear,” he muses, sensing a sinister undertone.
King’s creation is a real children’s book based on a fictional one, where the protagonist perceives the train as malevolent. Set to launch on November 22nd, the book, while not explicitly terrifying, features a cover that might give parents pause. The depiction of Charlie seems to suggest a train with darker ambitions—definitely not ideal for babysitting duties.
The Chilling Twist
While framed as a tale of friendship, loyalty, and hard work, it also includes a chilling twist in Charlie’s song. Initially, he sings about racing freely beneath the sky, but post-retirement, his tune shifts to a more morbid acceptance of his fate: “Now that I can’t race along, beneath a bright blue sky, I guess that I’ll just sit right here, until I finally die.” This jarring line is sure to stir some discomfort among parents.
Charlie the Choo Choo may appeal to those children who are unphased by frightful themes, as well as adults who are fans of the Dark Tower saga. Though our admiration for King is unwavering, we might reconsider having that cover visible in our homes. Between Charlie’s unnerving expression and the unsettling ambiance, it may be a stretch for some. However, for those eager for a collector’s item connected to Idris Elba’s Dark Tower—sorry, just Dark Tower—it could be just the thing.
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Summary
Stephen King’s Charlie the Choo Choo presents a disquieting narrative about a train with sinister undertones. Set to launch in November, this book, while marketed for young children, may be more suitable for those less easily unsettled. The story intertwines themes of friendship and the darker realities of life, making it a unique addition to the realm of children’s literature.
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