*Shortlisted

Review by Ferdinand, Thomas Telford School 
This new book is a fast-paced historical adventure that is great for middle grade readers set in 1829 Rainhill Trials. One of my favourite characters (Edward Entwistle) a working-class boy defends the Stephenson’ steam locomotive with his friend Prudence.  This intriguing story was a very enjoyable book that had hints of a thrilling, characterful mystery, with a well plotted adventure along with the entertainment of secrets, spies and sabotage made me enjoy this book even more. Inspired by the true events of Rainhill Trials this book also teaches history.  I’m glad I could say I loved reading this book. 

Review by Elsie, Richard Lander School 
I thought this book was excellent! 

This is a quick summary hopefully not spoiling too much: 

Who is sabotaging the Rainhill Trials? It is 1829. Everyone is talking about the exciting new railways, and young * Edward Entwistle cannot believe his good fortune: a chance encounter sees him offered a job at the Stephenson's' Steam Locomotive Manufactory. 

The Stephenson's are preparing for an important competition - The Rainhill Trials. A race of innovation and daring which will award the winner a contract to run the new Liverpool & Manchester Railway. Edward must protect the father and son inventors' latest creation - their precious Premium Engine - but strange and dangerous accidents keep stalling construction. 

Edward and his new loco-mad friend Prudence soon realise someone is trying to scupper the Stephenson's' chances. It is up to the friends to spot sabotage and chase down spies in a thrilling race against the clock. 

I loved this book because you never knew what was going to happen next; it always had you wondering. I would totally recommend this book to anyone who loves history or even just loves thrillers. It had me sitting on the edge of my seat while reading it. Personally, my favourite character Edward because I found him quite funny. I also learnt a lot from this book that I did not know. You should one hundred percent read this book.  

Review by Indy, Ashcroft Technology Academy 
The book Wrong Tracks was an intensely interesting read, especially because of the historical setting in 1829. It made the story feel more real, as you can truly understand why the characters act the way they do based on what was happening at the time. I enjoyed learning about a new time period that I had not discovered before reading this book! I particularly enjoyed learning a bit about locomotives (old trains) and discovering where they originated from. Personally, I particularly liked the Dear Alis sections (a part of the book in a letter format) because they felt more personal and helped show the characters’ thoughts and feelings in a different way. 

I enjoyed this book because it was easy to get into and didn’t make the history feel out of place. Instead, it made the story more meaningful. Overall, I would recommend Wrong Tracks by Susan Brownrigg to anyone wanting to discover more about our country’s history!