Out of all The Rev. W. Awdry's amazing books, this one surely stands out as one of the very best. Sixty years old this year, this book tells us all about that famous, yet awkward engine Henry. Henry has often been ill, and the Rev Awdry creates much sympothy for the character here as they try and find ways of making him better. A major crash in the second story solves the problem, when Henry is sent away for a complete rebuild. On his return, Gordon is jealous, though soon learns a lesson, and Percy causes trouble with the Fat Controller. Finally, in a delightfully funny story, Henry gets the chance to sneeze at some mis-behaving children.
This book is beautifully written throughout, and is an absolute joy to read aloud. I'm sure you and your children will have great fun with it. C. Reginald Dalby gives some quality illustrations, notably of Henry in the early morning snow. I would easily recommend this book, or indeed any book from this series over the more modern TV tie-in volumes. Give it a go!