The Gratitude Express tells the story of Daniel, a young journalist traveling to see his ailing grandfather. With a notebook in hand and a heavy heart, he struggles to write a eulogy for the man who meant so much to him. But when a mysterious steam train—unlisted and seemingly from another era—arrives at the station, Daniel steps aboard and embarks on a surreal, transformative journey.

Guided by a stoic conductor and his unexpectedly insightful parrot, Daniel is taken to vivid moments from his past—scenes long forgotten, where his life was changed and he unknowingly changed the course of others’ lives through small acts of courage and kindness.

Each stop reveals the power of gratitude: both the importance of expressing it and the impact that comes from receiving it. When the train finally delivers him to his destination, Daniel chooses to forgo the eulogy and share his appreciation with his grandfather face-to-face—just in time.

The book’s final image, with the Gratitude Express steaming into the distance, leaves listeners with the reminder that we are not self-made, and expressing gratitude to those who have influenced us along the way enriches their lives and ours as well.

Blending fable, nostalgia, and emotional truth, The Gratitude Express offers a gentle, powerful lesson: never wait to say the words that matter.