The Puffing Train
A Children's Story About the Dangers of Smoking
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About the Book
William Becker served as a health and Physical Educator in the St. Louis area for thirty-one years. Writing poetry has been a source of pleasure for a good portion of his life. Encouraged by his wife and friends, the concept from a poem entitled “The Puffing Train” was modified for this children’s book of the same title. Mr. Becker has a Bachelor of Science in Education Degree from Southeast Missouri State University, and graduate credits from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville.
Kerry Saunders, the author’s son, is presently pursuing an Associates Degree in Graphic Communications with emphasis in Graphic Design and Digital Imaging at St. Louis Community College. Most of the illustrations and enhancements contained in the book are the work of Kerry Saunders.
The Puffing Train image is credited to the artistic talent of Mike Keefe, Editorial Cartoonist of the Denver Post, and a close friend of the author.
The Puffing Train is an engaging story concerning the peer pressure and health risks that face children who choose to smoke tobacco products. The story line follows the trials of a family of train engines from naming their newborn son until he is subjected to some difficult decisions as a pre-teen. The fast young engine soon captures the attention of Mr. Sweeney who is the best engineer in Sleepy Valley.
During the growing process the young engine eventually submits to numerous dares from his so-called friends and plays a game called "Sharing a Smoke". Similar behavior of human teens smoking cigarettes is clearly illustrated. From the moment the young engine takes his first puff, he immediately experiences its negative affects. When he develops the smoking habit, he questions his parents about smoking.
When the town is visited by The Puffing Train, the possible long-term end result of smoking tobacco is realized. Due to the loss of Mr.
Sweeney, father and son decide to stop smoking coal. The young "smoke free" engine finally gets a name and a positive outlook on life. This appealing picture book will encourage discussion between parents and children and provide teachers with a useful health-related teaching tool.
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