The book Study Train was about a boy, Ethan, who gets a mysterious invitation to ride on a train. He was unhappy at home and school, so he packs his bags and leaves on the train. Ethan meets the conductor/headmaster, Althulos, of the train, who introduces him to all the other people on the train. They are all friendly and welcome him warmly. The headmaster shows him the delivery room, where he learns many interesting things.

 

He finds out about the untouchables, people whose images are in the delivery room. The untouchables identify Ethan as their leader, and they train him in their powers. Ethan is asked by the headmaster to fly the train wherever he likes. Ethan picks Shanghi, where Althulos powers are weakest. 

 

A battle occurs in Shanghai, which tests Ethans loyalties.  In the end, Ethan learns who his true friends are .