Collector's Edition: 10 Years of Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends (G, 1998)

COLLECTOR'S EDITION: 10 YEARS OF THOMAS THE TANK ENGINE AND FRIENDS is a compilation of fans' 10 favorite episodes from the Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends series. The episodes are learning experiences that teach positive morals and attitudes as trains travel across the countryside. The lessons address jealousy and altruism among other topics. The collection includes Thomas's race with Bertie across the countryside, Thomas's jealousy of Terrence the Tractor disappears when Terrence pulls him out of the snow, Henry gets hosed down by an elephant. Whatever the mishaps, Thomas and his friends always wind up with happy endings.

If there's one thing that parents can count on in this collection, it's a good example. Thomas models courtesy and leadership for his friends and the young audience at home.It may seem as if Thomas and his friends are always disgruntled about something, but the group manages to deal with their frustrations constructively.

Like real children, each day the trains have to resolve problems that seem like true dramas. For instance, as a favor, Percy returns children from the beach, and then hits rain and floods. He begins to wonder why he decided to help out, but eventually he pulls through and receives praise for his efforts. Stories like these can benefit children's moral growth, making them think twice about intentions, actions, and consequences.