Finley: A Moose on the Caboose

by Candace Spizzirri, Chantelle and Burgen Thorne (Illustrator)

"Rules are rules” and wild animals aren’t allowed on trains . . . or so says Conductor Jones.

Young adventurers will fall in love with Finley, a friendly moose with a toothy grin who wants nothing more than to ride the rails across Alaska and beyond. Prepare for giggles when Finley finds a costume shop and tries to pass for anything but wild, only to have Conductor Jones see right through these disguises. Fortunately, Finley has something Conductor Jones doesn’t see coming - heart and determination – showing us all that there are some rules in life that are meant to be changed.

With illustrations that capture both the essence of Finley’s spirit and the magic of an Alaskan railway adventure, Finley: A Moose on the Caboose is certain to be loved by anyone who dreams of making what seems impossible, possible.

Genres: Picture Books, Animals, Childrens, Fiction

32 pages, Hardcover

Published April 18, 2023

About the author

Candace Spizzirri grew up in a small town in New Jersey with tree-lined streets and old Victorian houses. As a child, she spent hours playing at the park, catching minnows in a nearby stream, and exploring the woods at the end of her street.

Passionate about education, Candace is a co-founder of an elementary school and high school in Southern California. She now splits her time between SoCal and Pennsylvania. Candace loves spending time with her husband, grown children, daughter-in-law, and five grandkids.

Candace's debut picture book, FISHING WITH GRANDPA AND SKYE, illustrated by Beverly Love Warren published with Clear Fork Publishing/Spork on April 19, 2022. Her second book, FINLEY: A MOOSE ON THE CABOOSE, illustrated by Chantelle & Burgen Thorne released on April 18, 2023, with Gnome Road Publishing.

Learn more about Candace at candacespizzirri.com and follow her on Twitter at @CCSpizzirri1 and on Instagram at @CCSpizzirri.

Reviews

[Heather Adores Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all, I love Finley so much. He's so adorable and I love his toothy grin. The title is great too. Overall, the book is super cute, BUT I am not sure about the message for 4-8 year olds.

All Finley wants to do is ride the train through Alaska, but the conductor kicks him off because he's 'a wild animal'. He comes up with the idea to put a costume on to make him be less noticeable. My favorite was the hot dog with his bird friend as the mustard. All of the costumes are fun, but time and time again he's kicked off because 'rules are rules'. However, when Finley's help is needed to get a tree off the tracks he's deemed a hero and is now allowed to have his dream come true to ride the train.

So here's my gripe about the message ~ the book makes it seem like it's okay to be sneaky to get what you want and then when you do something good it's okay to break the rules. I do think that most kids will probably overlook this and see the story for what it's really supposed to be ~ a fun loving heartfelt story about determination. With that said I really do recommend it.

The illustrations by Chantelle Thorne and Burgen Thorne were very well done.

*Thanks to Candace Spizzirri, Gnome Road Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*

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[Rebecca Crunden]

The artwork in this is super cute and the main character is a wholesome moose who just wants to see the world from onboard the train. The conductor keeps turning him away, but he's determined to ride the rail and doesn't give up his attempts.

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[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a cute children’s book. The illustrations are adorable.. Rules are rules and should be followed, but in some cases rules are meant to be changed. Stay true to yourself and stay positive and you can make a change where needed.

All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I have not been by anyone.

[Norene Paulson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A moose on a caboose?? You bet, and his name is Finley. This adorable picture book written by Candace Spizzirri and brilliantly illustrated by the team of Chantelle and Burgen Thorne, stars a toothy-grinned moose named Finley whose biggest desire is to hop on the train whose passengers he welcomes daily at the Talkeetna Station and travel to distant destinations. When Finley finally makes the leap, his dream of seeing the world collides with Conductor Jones who doesn't appreciate a passenger who is clearly breaking the "no wild animals allowed" rule. Booted off the train but undeterred, Finley tries to fulfill his dream of "riding the rails" by dressing in variety of hilarious costumes. Unfortunately, Conductor Jones is not fooled. After all, "rules are rules" that is until the train encounters a track emergency, and Finley, dressed adorably in a pink feathery costume complete with a tiara, saves the day. What a delightful story about believing in your dreams, never giving up on them, and knowing that sometimes it's ok, and maybe even necessary, to change the rules. Highly recommend this story!

[Katelyn Aronson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finley the Moose dreams of traveling to distant destinations...aboard the very train he greets each morning at Talkeetna Station, Alaska. But Conductor Jones always enforces one very strict rule : "No wild animals allowed" on board! So Finley tries all kinds of creative disguises to sneak aboard his beloved train, but Conductor Jones always finds him out & kicks him off. Until the day a natural disaster threatens to delay the train's voyage, and it's Finley to the rescue! His heroic intervention might just convince Jones to change a certain unfair rule...
A sweet reminder that "where there's a will, there's a way" accompanied by the most charming illustrations. Finley will win readers' hearts for sure!

[Jocelyn Watkinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

MOOSE on a CABOOSE? It's not hard to deduce that I'm chartreuse with jealousy that I didn't think of this story! Spizzirri weaves an adorable storyline that sometimes the "rules" are wrong and should be challenged in an adorable and subtle way. The illustrations are SO cute. I love the outfits Finley gets into! Great read and highly recommend!

[Paula Phillips · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was such an adorable picture book and reminded me of a cross between Thomas the Tank Engine with the trains and then a touch of Rocky and Bullwinkle with the Moose. This is a book I could imagine that my younger brother would have loved when he was a child as he went through a stage where he was a huge fan of Rocky and Bullwinkle and he also loved Thomas the Tank Engine. This book is set in Alaska where it is a common occurrence to see moose around where people like myself have never seen one in real life as we don't get them in New Zealand - too warm of a climate here. Finley loves watching the trains go past and his dream is to take a ride across Alaska on the train, however, rules are rules and unfortunately, wild animals are not allowed on the trains. Throughout the book, Finley will have fun donning different disguises and trying to get past the conductor, but each time he fails and is kicked off the train. What happens though when a tree blocks the train tracks and the only person who can save them is Finley the Moose? Will Finley finally achieve his dream of being able to ride the caboose train? Find out in this cute picture book written by Candace Spirzzirri and illustrated by Burgen and Chantelle Thorne. Finley-a Moose on the Caboose is the perfect read for children aged 3-6 years old.

[T.M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes, old rules should be changed for the betterment of everyone. This is the lesson given in this read aloud of Finley the Moose who only wants to ride the train yet keeps getting told that he can’t because it’s against the rules. But when an unexpected accident stops the train, can Finley save the day and change the conductors mind?

Thank you NetGalley and Gnome Road Publishing for allowing me to receive and read this cute children’s title in exchange for my review.

[Laura Bower · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finley is an adorable story and an adorable character. I love how Finley dreams of going clickety-clack on the track, feeling the blustery breeze on his face and visiting distant destinations. The illustrations are so charming! I felt for Finley as he tried out various disguises (the steamer trunk and hot dog were my favorites!). I want a Finley on my train! I would highly recommend this book for the humor and heart infused throughout the story, the powerful message (some rules are meant to be broken), the amazing setting - Alaska! - and the beautiful art.

[Matt Forrest Esenwine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rules are rules - until they need to be changed! Poor Finley wants to ride the rails; that's not too much to ask, is it? Apparently so, because as hard as he tries, Finley keeps getting foiled by the conductor. But then one day Finley's strength - and more importantly, his integrity - saves the day and the conductor realizes the rules against wild animals riding the rails needs some updating. A fun, raucous read!

[Bonnie Kelso · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's hard not to fall in love with Finley. This delightful read taps into that human desire to feel seen and appreciated just as you are. Everyone has special gifts, no matter what the rules say. Sweet illustrations, too!

[Kari Gonzalez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fall in love with adorable Finley, a moose intent on riding the caboose, and advocating for a change in the rules. Warm, playful illustrations are such a complement to a lyrical text with tons of imagination and alliteration. It's a must read!

[Jennifer Fischer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finley: A Moose on the Caboose is written by Candace Spizzirri and illustrated by Cantelle and Burgen Thorne. Finley is a moose that lives near the train station and delights in greeting the train's passengers each day. After seeing all the travelers arriving and departing, Finley has one wish...to ride the rails! Finley tries everything in order to be able to hitch a ride on the caboose, but the conductor always says the same thing, "Rule are rules" and one of those rules is that no moose are allowed on the train. One day Finley finally manages to board the train without the conductor recognizing him, but when the passengers and conductor need his help he has to decide whether or not to blow his cover in order to help out.

I absolutely love the illustrations in this book! Finley is adorable and is displayed prominently on nearly every page. The spreads strike a good balance between being detailed and minimalistic. The spreads with a lot of action going on typically have multiple illustrations with minimal background, while the less action-packed spreads have greater detail and more background. Overall, the illustrations pair well with the text in order to create a cohesive and engaging story.

This is a book that I would use with elementary students due to the potential to teach multiple literary devices such as rhyme and onomatopoeia. There is a theme of "rules are rules", but sometimes rules need to be changed., which is something that elementary students may need to learn when adapting to the rules in different settings and classrooms.

Thank you to NetGalley and Gnome Road Publishing for the opportunity to review an eARC of this title.

[Kelly Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an absolutely beautiful children's book is Finley by Candace Spizzirri! Both the story by Spizzirri and the illustrations by Chantelle Thorne and Burgen Thorne are heartwarming, engaging, and delightful.
I particularly enjoyed the use of words that evoke a sound - such as chugga-chugged and clackety-clack; they are sure to make reading the book aloud to a youngster a delight for all involved. Of course, the story of a friendly moose wanting to experience the fun of riding on a train but being put off almost immediately is fun, and the reader cannot help but root for the determined moose as he proves that a moose on a train can be a good thing in the end.
I also love how the little blue bird sticks with Finley throughout the book, adding another dimension of hide-and-seek fun for kids (and adults) as they read.
This is sure to be a book that becomes a family favourite for those with young children.
I am glad to have received an ARC of #Finley courtesy of #NetGalley and #GnomeRoadPublishing .

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This sweet book tells the story of a moose named Finley who really wants to ride on a train. Despite his best attempts at disguises he seems to always get caught by the conductor and reminded of the train rule against moose being abord! Then one day (much like another famous deer-like animal with a red nose), Finley saves the day and everyone on the train shows their appreciation for this special moose. The artwork/illustrations are really neat, and I could see kids really loving the story line. I could also see using this book as a mentor text for a fun writing project about other animals in places they shouldn't be. I would definitely recommend this book to parents and teachers of children in the age 4-9 range. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me the chance to read and review this book!

[OpenedBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finley, the moose, wants to join the adventure of travelling to distant places by riding the train, rolling into Talkeetna station daily. One day, he decided to act on his longing and make his dream come true. But riding in the caboose is not something that moose are allowed to do. He tries to outsmart the rule-following conductor in many ways, but nothing seems to work. But maybe fate has it that will let Finley the Moose ride in the caboose.

This story teaches us to never give up on our dreams. No matter how many obstacles are thrown our way. One day, the moment is right, and they will come true.

We loved all the ways Finley tried to outsmart the conductor and how he never gave up. It’s a life lesson learned through silliness. This is a wonderful picture book for you and your young ones.

[Kelly Rice Schmitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun read aloud! Finley is a loveable, persistent moose with a dream that he won't let go-- to ride the train and find adventure! The lovely illustrations feature gorgeous Alaska and Finley in a hilarious line up of costumes, and the text is a joy to share with just the right amount of alliteration. This both humorous and heart warming story of perseverance and pursuing your dreams is sure to be a winner with kids of all ages.

[Jolene Gutiérrez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Finley--from the way Chantelle and Burgen Thorne illustrated this adorable moose (Did I ever think I'd be referring to a moose as adorable? No, I did not, but they've proven me wrong) to the way that Candace Spizzirri shows his determination to follow his dreams and his desire for travel and adventure, Finley is wonderful! Readers will root for Finley as he tries everything he can think of to get on the train and ride the rails, and they'll laugh at Finley's costume changes as he attempts to fool the conductor. I love that Finley is always ready to help and am so glad the conductor learned that some rules are meant to be changed! :) This fun story is highly recommended for all classrooms, libraries, and homes.

[Laurel Morello · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another delightful beautifully illustrated sweet story by Candace of perseverance and fun mixed together. It shows how the misunderstood become the leader of lighting the pathway to understanding that differences can make a difference!

[Jennifer Cooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous Finley Fun!

This fun book engages with its simple message of acceptance and the fun use of language. There is nearly an onomatopoeia on every page! WHOHOOO!!! We learned that sometimes, there is an exception to the rule and that's okay! A great read for all!

[Lacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reminiscent of Rocky and Bullwinkle, Finley: A Moose on the Caboose is an adorable picture book about a moose named Finley who just wants to travel to all the fun places the people are going. But rules are rules, and no moose are allowed. *sad face* In the end, Finley the Moose (not to be confused with Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer) saves the day and gets to ride to his heart's content. I like the idea of teaching children to challenge out-of-date rules and to help your neighbors despite how they've treated you. But I don't like the fact that you have to 'prove' yourself to get to do something so simple as enjoy a caboose ride. Idk. Maybe I'm overthinking it and this will become a children's favorite. It is super cute! I will consider it for our library acquisition.

***Thank you to Netgalley and Gnome Road Publishing for providing me with a review copy.***

[Sarah Hovorka · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finley is a persistent moose who challenges an unfair rule. When disaster strikes, he shows that sometimes rules should change. With colorful, full-page illustrations and jaunty text, this book will delight train lovers, animal lovers, and book lovers of all sorts.

[Amanda Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finley the friendly moose is a lovable character who reminds readers that with patience, persistence, and a can-do attitude, dreams do come true! Spizzirri's text is filled with fun alliteration and imagery while the Thorne's earthy color palette bring a rustic/woodsy feel to the story creating a sense of warmth that mimics the simple joys of being outdoors and travel. Filled with humor and heart, I highly recommend!

[Melanie Sollitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this adorable book! Finley the moose is such a lovable character, and the story is wonderfully illustrated.

[Suzy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really cute book with a moose who figures out that being yourself is really the best.

Thank you NetGalley for this ARC!

[Melissa Stiveson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful and unexpected story of Finley the moose who has a dream to ride the rails. Pesky rules keep getting in the way and thwart his every attempt. But Findley doesn’t let this affect his kind heart and he comes to the rescue of the train and its passengers. A warm and cozy read!

[Charlotte Sherman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finley, the friendly moose, just wants to ride the train across Alaska like all the other passengers they witness hop aboard. However, according to the conductor, train rules must be followed. And a wild animal like a moose, cannot ride the train, no matter what disguise Finley uses to make their dream ride come true. Once the train encounters a problem only a moose can solve, the conductor finally sees the wisdom of making an exception to the rules. A rollicking, fun read with vibrant illustrations.

[Jen Fier · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this story and its joyful illustrations. Filled with lyrical language, humor, and an important reminder that some rules should be changed, FINLEY: A MOOSE ON THE CABOOSE is good-natured from cover to cover. Readers are sure to adore this moose who wants to ride the rails. He’s with friendly, funny, steadfast, and (thankfully!) strong.

[Molli Jackson Ehlert · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the parent of a train and animal loving child this book was a hit! Finley is immediately lovable and your kid is sure to find a favorite book in this humorous tale.

[Katrina Tangen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moose just wanna have adventures! Finley is creative and persistent in his attempts to travel by train. He’s also pretty adorable! It’s set in Talkeetna, Alaska, which is unusual and fun—and a place I’ve actually been!