Thirty years ago, a mysterious train steamed up to a young boy’s front door, taking him on a trip he would never forget. Told as a first-person recollection and richly illustrated in oil pastels, Chris Van Allsburg’s The Polar Extress is a story of the faith that children bring into the world. For millions of families worldwide, this boy’s Christmas Eve journey has become a part of their own holiday traditions.
The Polar Express, first published in 1985, has been honored with a Caldecott Medal, the highest accolade in children’s books; inspired by dozens of seasonal train rides around the country. We are looking to do the Polar Express train ride this year with our youngest. All of our children have been able to experience this magical adventure but him. I’m looking forward to letting him experience it as well.
In this 30th anniversary edition, the inimitable artistry of Chris Van Allsburg is revealed in a never-before-seen fashion, with a new jacket design and expanded interior layout, and includes a letter from Van Allsburg, downloadable audio read by Liam Neeson, and a golden keepsake ornament.
Our thoughts:
The Polar Express is perfect for our 25 days of books. This beloved story has been read at Christmas in our house for at least 20 years. My daughter fell in love with the story at a very young age, and although she is an adult now, I still continue to read this book yearly to the boys. The 30th Anniversary Edition is just as beautiful as the original copy and comes with a personal note from Van Allsburg as well as a keepsake ornament.
Every time the hashtag #ReadandBelieve is used on any social media platform, a copy of the book will be donated to Christmas in the City, a nonprofit organization that helps families in need.
If you are looking to add to your family traditions, do consider the reading of this book! It’s one that can be passed down for generations. The Polar Express 30th Anniversary Edition can be purchased with a SRP of $19.99.
