The Christmas Train

By: David Baldacci

Narrated by: Tim Matheson

A journalist on a cross-country Christmas train scales the rugged terrain of his own heart in this New York Times bestselling holiday tale that inspired the Hallmark Hall of Fame original movie!

Disillusioned journalist Tom Langdon must get from Washington to Los Angeles in time for Christmas. Forced to travel by train, he begins a journey of rude awakenings, thrilling adventures, and holiday magic. He has no idea that the locomotives pulling him across America will actually take him into the rugged terrain of his own heart, as he rediscovers people's essential goodness and someone very special he believed he had lost.

David Baldacci's THE CHRISTMAS TRAIN is filled with memorable characters who have packed their bags with as much wisdom as mischief...and shows how we do get second chances to fulfill our deepest hopes and dreams, especially during this season of miracles.
©2002 Columbus Rose, LTD.; (P)2002 Time Warner AudioBooks

Critic reviews

"Evokes the glamour of classic romances."—People

"Wonderful characters...all touched by the miracle of the Christmas season."—Houston Home Journal

"The makings of a classic...don't miss this delightful book."—Southern Pines Pilot

"An enjoyable journey...'All aboard!'"
—Orlando Sentinel

"Heartwarming...a sweet holiday tale."
—Booklist

"Heartwarming...a touching, morally uplifting tale."
—Fort Worth Star-Telegram

On A Whim For Fun

I chose this selection because I was curious about how Tim Matheson would narrate. I knew I enjoyed David Baldacci even though this story was not his usual style. And I was not dissappointed.

I have never traveled on a train like this in my adult years, but I really want to now. My sense is that in today's society, this travel mode will dissappear just like families sitting around the radio after dinner time has. And as it was not quite a Miss Marple mystery, the tale was fun.

This is a pleasant diversion, which is one very big reason why I have a membership on this site. Sometimes I want serious, sometimes I want depth. Sometimes I just want pleasant and simple. This book reminds me of how to be a good friend and activities that would help us enjoy life together.

A feel good tale with a bit of mystery

There are some stereotypes in here, but the story is tight, the characters are dimensional and the mystery keeps it moving. It was entertaining.

Good combination of romance and mystery

Would you recommend The Christmas Train to your friends? Why or why not?

Yes, when I first started to listen to the story it was a little slow to start but I was intrigued by the different characters that we met on the train. The more that I listened I started to connect with Tom and all that he experienced on the train! I loved the ending...it completely surprised me!!

Nostalgic, Funny, and Thought Provoking Ride

Reporter, Tom Langdon's coast to coast ride on the rails turns out to be a little more than he bargained for. The story starts out with Tom's funny tale of being banned from the airlines after a body search by an over zealous TSA agent and his hung-over, ballistic response. Thus his cross-country train ride to meet his girl friend (and to channel his fellow writer and hero, Mark Twain, to experience what he had on the trains) . . . Tom encounters one surprise after another on his excursion . . . the greatest being his own examination of himself . . . Its a great tale . . . but I disagree with other readers, it is not a story for young listeners. For the most part, it is very clean, but anyone with an ear, will tell you that it is full of adult innuendo and complex issues. Kindness, joy, adventure and love are abundant . . . as is casual coupling with the opposite sex , although not graphic nor descriptive. Resolution was perfect. Bravo!

A Different Bald acc I

Not as usual style, as I've read all of his books, but a thoroughly enjoyable read. Sweet and entertaining throughout. If you love riding the rails, as I do, I think you might enjoy this little gem. Great narration as well.