The Little Engine That Could

Outline

The Little Engine That Could (1930) tells the story of a small blue engine who agrees to pull a train full of toys and treats over a high mountain after bigger engines refuse. Chugging up the slope, she repeats, I think I can, I think I can, until she reaches the top. Watty Piper’s classic has taught generations of children the power of optimism, determination, and helping others.

• A small blue engine agrees to pull a train of toys and treats over a high mountain.
• Bigger engines refuse the job, yet the smallest one is willing to try.
• Repeating 'I think I can' keeps the little engine moving up the steep slope until she reaches the top.
• The story shows children that optimism and determination can carry them through hard challenges.
• Helping others is part of the lesson, since the engine takes on the task for the sake of the toys and treats.

Watty Piper is the pen name used by the American publisher Arnold Munk, whose company Platt & Munk published children’s books. Under this name he retold and edited many stories for young readers. The Little Engine That Could became his best-known book and a lasting symbol of perseverance.