King & Train is a coming-of-age novel set during the years 1956-1960 and experienced through the novel’s main character Danny Shea who, even in the midst of his rowdy and oddball friends, remains somewhat isolated and introspective. It is a story that deals with violence, humor, friendship, and the first stirrings of love; and culminates in a quest that takes Danny far from home and results in both failure and an awakening.