"Oxford Reds" is our first major super series for newly confident readers. Each book is on a real-life subject, with a simple lively text and richly coloured, realistic illustrations. Many are written by well-known children"s writers. Each one is written by an author who communicates enthusiasm, passion and understanding for the subject. Approved by educational experts, "Oxford Reds" contain clear type, simple sentence structures, information boxes, contents pages, alphabetical glossaries, and parents" and teacher"s notes. These books will appeal particularly to the beginner reader who prefers factual information to a story. The series is planned to launch with 12 titles in 2000 followed by 8 per year. Other subjects include: "Sharks"; "Snakes"; "Frogs and Toads"; "Dogs"; "Rockets"; and "Wolves". This title is about trains: did you know that early steam trains travelled at twenty miles an hour? Today"s TGV trains in France can travel at speeds of around 180 miles an hour! About the author: Dennis Hamley is a retired teacher who has written numerous children"s books and short stories, among them "The War and Freddy", which was shortlisted for the Smarties prize. He also writes crime thrillers for adults. He lives in Hertford and is married with two grown up children and one grandson.