Title: The Polar Express
Author: Chris Van Allsburg
First published October 28, 1985
32 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780395389492 (ISBN10: 0395389496)
Rating: 4.32
Overview
“Believe in the magic of Christmas, for it is the most real thing in the world.” On a quiet Christmas Eve, a young boy embarks on an extraordinary journey aboard the Polar Express to the North Pole. With each passing moment, he discovers the true meaning of Christmas and the magic it holds.
Upon arrival, Santa Claus grants the boy a wish, and he humbly asks for a simple bell from the reindeer’s harness. On his way back home, the boy loses the bell, but on Christmas day, he finds it under his tree.
Though the bell is broken, only those who believe can hear its sweet sound. Chris Van Allsburg’s enchanting illustrations bring this timeless tale to life, making it a cherished holiday classic for generations to come.
Winner of the prestigious Caldecott Medal in 1986, The Polar Express has warmed the hearts of millions and inspired countless adaptations across the globe.
About the Author
On June 18, 1949, Chris was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He was the second child of Doris Christiansen Van Allsburg and Richard Van Allsburg, with his sister Karen being born two years earlier in 1947.
Chris’s grandfather, Peter, owned a creamery called East End Creamery, which produced butter, cream, cottage cheese, and ice cream from milk. They used to deliver these products to homes all around Grand Rapids in yellow and blue trucks.
When Chris was born, his family lived in an old farm house next to the creamery building, which was no longer surrounded by farmland.
Chris’s father and three uncles ran the dairy after his grandfather retired. When Chris was three, his family moved to a newly built house at the edge of Grand Rapids.
It was part of a planned neighborhood that was still being constructed. The area had many open fields, streams, and ponds where a boy could catch minnows and frogs or watch fireflies at night.
Chris walked about a mile and a half to Breton Downs School every day until 6th grade when his family moved again.
Their next home was an old brick Tudor Style house in East Grand Rapids. It was a street that looked like the street on the cover of The Polar Express.
The houses were all set back the same distance from the street, and enormous Elm trees grew between the street and the sidewalk. Chris moved to this street with his mom, dad, sister, and two Siamese cats named Fafner and Eloise.
Chris went to junior and senior high school in East Grand Rapids, where he didn’t take any art classes. His interests and talents were more in the area of math and science.
Editoral Review
The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg is a beloved classic children’s book that has captured the hearts of readers for over three decades. Published in October 1985, this picture book tells the story of a young boy who embarks on a magical journey to the North Pole on a mysterious train called the Polar Express.
The author, Chris Van Allsburg, is a renowned American author and illustrator who has won numerous awards for his children’s books, including the Caldecott Medal for this particular book. The Polar Express is a beautifully illustrated book with a remarkable attention to detail.
The book’s illustrations are in black and white, which gives the story a timeless quality. The images are highly detailed and evocative, creating a sense of wonder and magic that is both captivating and enthralling.
The book’s theme of the power of belief and imagination is skillfully woven into the story, making it a perfect read for children and adults alike. The story takes place on Christmas Eve when a young boy wakes up to hear the sound of a train outside his house.
As he peers outside, he is amazed to find a train waiting for him that’s headed to the North Pole, where he’ll meet Santa Claus himself. The boy, along with other children, sets off on the Polar Express, and they have many adventures on the way to the North Pole.
The book’s main character is the boy, and he is a relatable, likable character who captures the reader’s empathy. One of the critical strengths of The Polar Express is its timeless storytelling that continues to resonate with readers of all ages.
Van Allsburg’s book is a timeless classic that transcends generations, and it’s easy to see why. The story has a warmth and charm that is appealing to all ages, and the message that the power of belief can create magic in the world is an enduring one.
However, the book’s pacing may be a weakness for some readers. While the story moves at a steady pace, it may not be quick enough for some younger readers who have shorter attention spans.
The book’s length and lack of action may also be a turnoff for some readers who are looking for a more adventurous tale. That being said, The Polar Express is still a must-read for anyone who appreciates the magic of the holiday season.
It’s a beautiful book, filled with stunning illustrations and a heartwarming story that captures the spirit of Christmas. The book’s message that anything is possible if you believe strongly enough is inspiring, making it an excellent choice for readers of all ages.
In conclusion, The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg is an enduring classic that has earned its place in children’s literature. Its timeless storytelling and beautiful illustrations are enchanting, and its message of the power of belief resonates with readers of all ages.
It is a perfect book for families to read together during the holiday season, and it warrants a high recommendation for anyone looking for an uplifting and magical story.
