Old Freedom Train

Old Freedom Train: A Waldorf Inspired Alphabet

Based on the time-tested Waldorf education methods of introducing the abstract letters of the alphabet with enlivening characterization, this book is a beautifully illustrated gem that will delight parents and children alike. Each letter is introduced with a hand-drawn picture, accompanied by a verse, poem, or nursery rhyme.

The foreword introduces the story of how the book came to be. The afterword discusses the Waldorf approach to literacy and teaching the letters of the alphabet. The words and music of the song “This Old Freedom Train” are also included.

This book will bring a sense of joy and discovery to learning for both parent and child.

“My two daughters cannot get enough of this beautiful book. It is both worn and ragged now-adorned with those telltale signs of a most loved book. The illustrations are beautiful, and my older daughter is beside herself with joy, as she has just begun to realize that they form letters!” —Emily Murphy, USA

About the Author

Shayne Jackman is a Sydney-based photographer, specializing in children and families. She grew up in Japan and Singapore before moving back to Australia for university. She has a degree in History and is now a postgraduate student studying psychology. The book Old Freedom Train was conceived when Australian artist Shayne Jackman was searching for a Steiner/Waldorf alphabet frieze for her children’s playroom, and couldn’t find one…so she decided to make one herself. She found that using colorful pencils in soft shades to draw sweet images was soothing to the soul, energizing, and satisfying, so she decided to make a book. Adding special words from her experience as a mother of children in a Steiner playgroup and preschool seemed the perfect fit. Thus, Old Freedom Train: A Waldorf Inspired Alphabet Book and “Old Freedom Train – Steiner Inspired Alphabet Frieze” were born. Shayne Jackman lives in Sydney, Australia, with two cats, a dog and her two cherished children. She loves to draw, take photographs, travel, read and walk in the sunshine. She believes that the best learning comes when both heart and head are engaged.