The Greatest Books of All Time on Trains
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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 759 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.
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1. The Great Railway Bazaar by Paul Theroux
By Train Through Asia
"The Great Railway Bazaar" is a travelogue in which the author embarks on a four-month journey by train from London through Europe, the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and Siberia, and then back to Europe. The book is a vivid and insightful account of the people, cultures, landscapes, and experiences encountered during the journey, painting a unique picture of the world as seen from the perspective of a train window. The author's sharp observations and engaging storytelling make this journey as much an inner exploration as a geographical one.
The 1400th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
2. Riding The Iron Rooster by Paul Theroux
By Train Through China
In this captivating travelogue, the author embarks on an epic journey across China by train, offering a vivid tapestry of the country's diverse landscapes, cultures, and people. Through encounters with fellow passengers and locals, the narrative delves into the complexities of Chinese society during a time of significant change, blending historical insights with personal anecdotes. The journey reveals the challenges and wonders of traversing a vast nation, capturing the essence of travel as a means of discovery and understanding.
The 6428th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
3. The Little Engine that Could by Platt & Munk
A classic children's story, this book tells the tale of a small train engine that, despite its size, manages to overcome a seemingly impossible task. When a larger train is unable to carry its load over a steep mountain, the little blue engine, although initially unsure, decides to try. With determination, perseverance, and the repeated mantra of "I think I can," the little engine successfully climbs the mountain, teaching young readers the value of hard work, optimism, and self-belief.
The 7215th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
4. Lonely Planet Amazing Train Journeys by Lonely Planet
60 Unforgettable Rail Trips and How to Experience Them
Explore 60 of the world's most remarkable train journeys, from iconic long-distance routes like the Rocky Mountaineer in Canada and The Ghan in Australia, to hidden gems on everyday commuter lines. This book captures the magic of train travel, featuring epic international adventures and scenic suburban routes. Discover engineering marvels, trains winding through mountain peaks, and those recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Each journey includes practical details like ticket options, timetables, and stops, complemented by stunning photos and maps.
The 17117th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon
Reading Statistics
Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!
Download
If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.
DownloadTo download this list as a CSV file, please log in to your account. Once logged in, you'll be able to download the data for use in spreadsheet applications.
Login to Download