The Golden Swift is a wonderful fantasy adventure story by Lev Grossmam and is the second book in his ‘Silver Arrow’ series.

The novel sees the return of Kate and Tom who are now conductors on the Great Secret Intercontinental Railway. They work to help relocate endangered animals using their own steam train, The Silver Arrow.

The story is set against a tumultuous backdrop – the climate crisis is worsening (endangering more animals), Uncle Herbert is missing, and Kate’s audition for the junior high musical didn’t go well.

Overwhelmed by these issues, Kate goes on an unsanctioned mission to find her Uncle Herbert and to save the natural world.

But on her rogue mission, she encounters a rival train called The Golden Swift who seems to have its own agenda by dropping animals off at the wrong stations. Ultimately, Kate attempts to confront the train, and this in turn leads her on a wild and unpredictable journey.

This is a brilliant and thoughtful book that teaches you about the climate crisis, geography, environment and animals. I especially enjoyed learning about the role humans have in conservation and how the process of animal relocation is incredibly nuanced and complex.

Sabrina, Year 8
Age Guide 8+