Chris Van Allsburg's The Polar Express is a Christmas classic following a boy's magical train journey to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Through stunning illustrations and spare, evocative text, Van Allsburg creates a story about belief, wonder, and the magic that exists for those who can still hear it. The book becomes both holiday tradition and meditation on childhood faith, proving that the best Christmas stories are about more than presents and that some bells only ring for believers.

WHY WE PICKED IT: Because Van Allsburg created the Christmas book that captures the bittersweet moment when childhood belief meets doubt. This classic reminds us that magic requires belief, that some gifts are invisible, and that the bell keeps ringing for those who want to hear it.

DETAILS: • Author/Illustrator: Chris Van Allsburg • Publisher: Clarion Books • Format: Hardcover • Publication Date: September 15, 2015 • ISBN: 9780544580145 • Ships direct from distributor in 3–7 business days