Picture Book Month: Christmas

I know that this is a classic (and much of my list for Picture Book Month were more recent titles), but my memories for this story are so clear in my mind… it’s hard to choose any other book. Rather than telling you about the plot, I’m just going to share my experiences with this book. My mom read this book to us every Christmas Eve for as long as I can remember. One year, Santa left an extra special gift of a new copy of the book and a sleigh bell. I still hear my mother’s voice every time I read this book aloud or to myself. Her rhythm and cadence are the only way I know how to read it. A few years ago, I was lucky enough to hear Chris Van Allsburg speak at a local bookstore. That was the year I bought each of my siblings, my parents and myself a copy of the book signed to each of them. Now I have a nephew and niece and hope that they too get to experience the magic of Christmas and The Polar Express for themselves.
Title: The Polar Express
Author: Chris Van Allsburg
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin
Publication Date: 1985

You’ll be seeing a lot of picture books on my blog throughout the month of November as we celebrate Picture Book Month.  You’ll definitely want to check out the website as picture book authors and illustrators will be posting an essay each day about the importance of picture books!  Check back daily for some great picture books surrounding a specific theme.