When Roberta, Peter, and Phyllis' father is taken away accused of espionage, they and their mother must move into a small cottage near the railway. Their new life is poor and difficult, but also has bright spots, such as getting to know the stationmaster, Perks, and discovering all the exciting things at the railway station. They are there so often that they begin to get to know the train passengers, including a kind old man who might be able to help their father. This charming British children's book classic from 1905 has been adapted into film several times, as well as radio drama and a number of stage productions. EDITH NESBIT [1858-1924] was an English author and poet, best known for her children's and young adult books. She modernised the children's book genre by introducing serious themes that had previously been considered more suitable for adults, and has inspired many later writers, including C. S. Lewis and J. K. Rowling.