This beloved Christmas book has won numerous awards, including the Caldecott, been made in to a feature film with Tom Hanks, and even comes to life in Williams, Arizona (thanks to Grand Canyon Railway). The narrator tells the story of one boyhood Christmas Eve when he boarded a magical locomotive and travelled to the North Pole to meet Santa Claus. There, he receives the first gift of Christmas and learns the power of belief. The writing has a haunting, poignant quality reminiscent of Dickens and is accompanied by Van Allsburg's gorgeous illustrations. Dark, somewhat grainy paintings, the images dominate ninety percent of each double page spread. The gentle combination of words, pictures, and a timeless theme make this book a classic for all children. ( )

Ms favorite. Even months after Christmas. Mx likes it too, but not as much!

Quoting from the book on the verso page, "Summary: A magical train ride on Christmas Eve takes a boy to the North Pole to receive a special gift from Santa Claus." This book was written and illustrated by Chris Van Allsburg. It won the Caldecott Medal for the most distinguished picture book for children for year it was published.

Independent Reading Level: Grades 2-4 Awards/Honors: Caldecott Medal

This book. I love The Polar Express so much, even now as an adult. The full page artwork is stunning, the story very moving and unique, and it is just plain fun. I also love that Liam Neeson has done a reading of the story, it sounds perfect for that feeling of wonder you have as a kid waking up on Christmas morning. Being able to hear Santa on the rooftop has long been a part of the legend, but this book takes the idea of "hearing" is believing, one step farther. ( )