The Polar Express

Written and illustrated by Chris Van Allsburg

A young boy takes a magical train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve.

6.4/7 Bookroo experts·4.3/5 Goodreads · 250,065 ratings

32 pages· 910 words· Est. 7 min read-aloud

$21.99Save 5%

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Bookroo's summary

On Christmas Eve, a young boy boards a magical train bound for the North Pole. As the Polar Express journeys through dark forests and icy landscapes, he anticipates a special gift from Santa. Will his Christmas wish come true in the city atop the world? This enchanting adventure, filled with wonder and mystery, has captivated readers for generations. Experience the magic anew with this special edition, featuring stunning illustrations and a keepsake ornament. Join the boy on a timeless journey where belief and imagination lead to the heart of Christmas.

"On Christmas Eve, many years ago, I lay quietly in my bed. I did not rustle the sheets. I breathed slowly and silently. I was listening for a sound- a sound a friend had told me I'd never hear- the ringing bells of Santa's Sleigh."

— from the book

From the publisher

1986 Caldecott Medal Winner

A young boy, lying awake one Christmas Eve, is welcomed aboard a magical trip to the North Pole . . .

Through dark forests, over tall mountains, and across a desert of ice, the Polar Express makes its way to the city atop the world, where the boy will make his Christmas wish.

For millions of readers worldwide, this mysterious journey to the North Pole has become a beloved classic. 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. Includes author’s note, downloadable audio read by Liam Neeson, and golden “All Aboard” ornament.

Awards

Caldecott Medal (1986)Boston Globe–Horn Book Honor (1986)

At a glance

Format
Pages: 32
Words: 910
Reading age: 5–8
Audience: Picture
Lexile: ~580L

Themes & topics

Books about Christmas Books about Christmas and advent Books about trains Books about arctic and antarctic Books about Santa Claus

What readers & critics say

Reviews

6.4

out of 7

7.0

“For more than 30 years this magical Christmas book has been delighting readers and believers and has become a traditional element of our holiday season. Be careful not to confuse the book with the more recent movie! The story, featuring Chris Van Allsburgh's lovely pencil illustrations in a muted palette of colors, is perfectly paced. The poetic and descriptive text is a pleasure to read--or listen to, "We traveled through cold, dark forests, where lean wolves roamed and white-tailed rabbits hid from our train as it thundered through the quiet wilderness." (Both Liam Neeson and John Hurt have made recordings.) The Polar Express celebrates belief in the magic of Christmas; our holiday season would not be complete without it!”

Grammy

Trusted reviewer

For readers who can't stop at one