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. ( )

This story is a beautiful tale of imagination and childlike wonder. A little boy is taken on a wild christmas journey fueled by joy and belief in the Christmas spirit. ( )

Independent Reading Level: 2nd Grade
Awards/Honors: Caldecott Medal ( )