Night of the Orphan Train

A Musical Novel

De: Brent Maher

Narrado por: John Davis Fraser

Brent Maher, who has produced seven Grammy Award winning records and over twenty #1 singles has written this musical novel, Night of the Orphan Train, bringing to life the little-known story of 250,000 homeless orphans who were swept off the streets of New York City and shipped off in boxcars to every state in the union from 1854 until the early 1920s.

Songs weave in and out of the saga and help to tell the story of three of these children, who we meet around the age of 11.

Caroline, a young girl far older than her years would suggest, Billy, who has an unshakeable sense of right and wrong, and Jacob, whose heart is as big as the moon. We follow their journeys from their childhood to young adulthood with the Orphan Trains, World War I, and Angels Unawares profoundly impacting each of their lives.

©2025 Brent Maher (P)2025 One Audiobooks

Powerful Story of Love and Compassion

Brent Maher has done an outstanding job blending powerful music, a wonderful tale of human compassion and a glimpse into the divine at work in a less than perfect world. You will love the music and story contained in The Night of the Orphan Train.
Rev. Dr. Craig Goff

An American Story for the Ages

Night of the Orphan Train is an American story for the ages! This history based glimpse of Americana at the turn of the 20th century pulls the listener in with its compelling story line, pure wit and brilliant music. It won’t take long before you feel like you have stepped into the scenery and texture of this significant event, Wrap yourself in this historical and unforgettable tale of compassion, bravery, perseverance, faith, hope and love like a patchwork quilt. It will warm your heart and soul!

Brilliant Narration!

Loved this one from front to back! The narration and music especially kept my attention. Really enjoyed that there was so much creativity and attention given to the production of this musical novel. Five stars!

History comes alive in The Orphan Train

The Orphan Train took us on a journey that broke our hearts and healed our spirits. The songs convey the historic story of orphan children from all walks of life in search of a forever home. There is humor and drama and romance and enough heart in these characters to endear them to any audience. Brent Maher has captured a slice of history and brought it to life through music and story. All who hear this tale will be enchanted by the songs and by the story of Caroline, Jacob, and Billy. Consider going on the journey with them and be prepared to have your life enriched as theirs was. ~ Celia and Ron Whitler

Knew music would be great, but story is awesome!

Written and produced by a multi-Grammy winner writer/producer I expected great music, but the story was awesome as well. I never listen to/read a book twice, but with this unique format - resembling a Broadway play - this is one I will enjoy again and again. If this doesn't touch your heart - you ain't breathin',

This is an absolute treasure!

The music, the storyline, the characters… each aspect is so special and represents such an important chapter in American history!

Powerful story backed by beautiful music

How is it such a massive human rescue effort took place and not be celebrated in history. With a minor in American history from a major Eastern university I’m embarrassed to say I didn’t know the story of the orphan train. But I do now through the masterful words and music of Brent Maher and the wonderful narrator. I’ve already listened to it twice on the first day it has been out and will continue to listen to it regularly. It’s such a powerful and uplifting story backed by incredibly beautiful music.

The Fascinating Story of The Night Train

This musical novel title didn’t initially stir my interest, but curiosity made me stop for a second look and giving it a listen. I could not have been more enlightened and entertained. From the very start the story is intriguing and well-told, the characters are fascinating, and the music and songs are exceptional. Combined with the historical basis, it makes for an extremely enjoyable listen. .

Unique and Important Story

Five stars for Brent Maher's unique musical novel "Night of the Orphan Train!" This engaging work brings to life the real story of the Orphan Train program that took abandoned kids off the streets of New York City from the 1880s to 1920 or so. I am well-studied in American history but did not know of this story, which placed over 200,000 kids in homes across the country.  The story features a small group of kids who band together and form a strong bond on the streets of NYC only to be separated by their permanent placement in different parts of the United States, and then find themselves brought together again by fate and World War I.  The music is SUPERB! as would be expected since it was written and produced by 7-time Grammy Award winner Brent Maher.  Many of the songs in the novel can stand alone as classics.  I think The Night of the Orphan Train would make an excellent gift for young people, as it brings history to life and may help children really appreciate their families and homes.  The narrator makes the novel come alive.  This musical novel is ideal for listening in the car with the kids!  I highly recommend this wonderful musical novel by Brent Maher!