Miles of Smiles: The Story of Roxey, the Long Island Rail Road Dog
By Heather Hill Worthington
Illustrations by Bill Farnsworth
Hardcover: 32 pages
List Price: $17.95
ISBN13: 978-0-9792918-4-5
(Ages 6 - 10+)
Roxey, a lovable stray dog, wanders into the Garden City Train Station during a summer thunderstorm. The station master, Agent Heaney, adopts Roxey, but soon the dog’s fun-loving ways get him into trouble. Roxey’s passion for train hopping takes him away from the station where he belongs. He gets so carried away, he travels by train all over Long Island.
Roxey breaks railroad rules, but collects friends wherever he goes. Luckily, the Long Island Rail Road’s President, Ralph Peters, has a heart. He finds the perfect solution.
Meet Roxey the Railroad Dog, a real dog who lived one hundred years ago. You’re sure to find yourself smiling.
Miles of Smiles: The Story of Roxey, the Long Island Rail Road Dog
“This is a fascinating story about a dog who loved railroaders and the railroaders who loved the dog. A great book for rail fans and children.”
– Dave Morrison, President, Long Island Rail Road Historical Society
“What a great lesson in Roxey! Even with all odds against you, persistence and a little help from others can mean the difference between success and failure. Roxey’s gratitude completes the lesson. The beautiful illustrations capture the feelings of the characters, especially when Roxey meets the President! Thank you, Ms. Worthington, for sharing Roxey’s story with us all.”
– J. Philip Perna, Superintendent, Montauk Public Schools
“I applaud this wonderful children’s book. Roxey was a real railroad dog who indeed traveled throughout the Long Island Rail Road system. He was saluted and recognized by many of the LIRR’s employees and was loved by so many people. Today, Roxey rests in a place of honor outside of the Merrick Train Station. Ms. Worthington has dramatically captured the history and spirit of Roxey. The beautiful artwork brings Roxey to life. You and your family will enjoy Roxey’s story, and through it, learn something of Long Island railroading history. Share this book with your children and grandchildren. You will want to read it again and again.”
– Don Fisher, President, Railroad Museum of Long Island, Greenport & Riverhead, New York