
Part 1
Tilly the tiny train rolled along her familiar track. Ahead, workers had opened a new short tunnel through the hill.
Find a cozy spot. Read together. Pause for the good questions.

Tilly the tiny train rolled along her familiar track. Ahead, workers had opened a new short tunnel through the hill.
Read aloud, take turns, or pause for a question. The illustrated page-by-page reader is above.
Page 1
Tilly the tiny train rolled along her familiar track. Ahead, workers had opened a new short tunnel through the hill.
Page 2
The tunnel entrance looked dark, and Tilly's wheels became still. She worried she might not know what waited inside.
Page 3
Her friend Bruno stopped beside her. Tilly said, "I feel unsure. May we look before I go through?"
Page 4
Bruno shone a warm lantern into the tunnel. They saw smooth rails, pale walls, and daylight at the other end.
Page 5
Tilly moved forward only one wheel turn. She listened, looked, and noticed the tunnel was quiet and clear.
Page 6
Bruno stayed close while Tilly rolled slowly inside. They counted each gentle click until bright daylight reached them.
Page 7
Tilly came out beneath a field of daisies. The new path led to a beautiful station she had never seen.
Page 8
Tilly learned she could check, ask, and move slowly when something felt uncertain. Careful courage carried her through.
Read each question together. Choose the answer that matches the story.
Try the story activityShare a rhyme inspired by the story. Read the words together, tap a gentle beat, or make up your own tune.
Tilly sees a tunnel new.
Dark inside blocks out her view.
Tilly stops her wheels and says,
“Can we look before this way?”
Bruno shines a lantern warm.
Rails and daylight show no harm.
Check and ask, then roll in slow.
Careful courage helps us go.
One wheel turn and listen too.
Trusted friends can stay with you.
Click by click they travel through.
Bruno stays where Tilly views.
Bright day waits beyond the wall,
Daisy station greets them all.
Check and ask, then roll in slow.
Careful courage helps us go.
Tilly found a lovely place.
Slow and steady won the race.
Dark felt new, but help was near.
Looking slowly eased her fear.
Enjoy the video version of this story, then talk about your favorite part.
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