The Polar Express was first published in 1985, has been honored with a Caldecott Medal, the highest accolade in children's books; inspired dozens of seasonal train rides around the country; served as the theme for countless elementary school pageants; and perhaps most important of all, remains a steadfast reminder to readers young and old of the true magic of Christmas.
About the Book:
One Christmas Eve many years ago, a boy lies in bed, listening hard for the bells of Santa’s sleigh, which he has been told by a friend do not exist. Later that night he hears not bells but a very different sound. He looks out his window and is astounded to see a steam engine parked in front of his house! The conductor invites him to board the Polar Express, a train filled with children on their way to the North Pole.
The train takes the children to the center of the city, where Santa and the elves have gathered for the giving of the first gift of Christmas. The boy is chosen to receive this first gift. Knowing that he can choose anything in the world, he decides on a simple gift: one silver bell from Santa’s sleigh. Santa cuts a bell from a reindeer’s harness and the delighted boy slips it into his bathrobe pocket as the clock strikes midnight and the reindeer pull the sleigh into the sky.
When the children return to the train, the boy realizes the bell has fallen through a hole in his pocket. Heartbroken, he is returned to his home. In the morning, his little sister finds one small box with the boy’s name on it among the presents. Inside is the silver bell! The boy and his sister are enchanted by its beautiful sound, but their parents cannot hear it. The boy continues to believe in the spirit of Christmas and is able to hear the sweet ringing of the bell even as an adult.
My Review:
We watch The Polar Express movie several times before Christmas. It has become part of our family movie tradition. I am a kid at heart. I love believing in Christmas Magic, and I love helping my three children to do so too! Now we can incorporate reading the book during the holidays too! There are a few differences in the book then there are in the movie. The movie added a few things in that aren't included inside the book. I really like them both! I can't wait to hang the Ornament on my Christmas Tree this year and every year going forward. What a great edition to our ornament collection!
There is information for teachers and educators, discussion guide, a party kit, printable games, activities and more on PolarExpress.com! You can also enter The Polar Express Holiday Sweepstakes on the website for a chance to win a very special grand prize: An all-expenses paid trip for one lucky family of four to ride The Polar Express Train in Durango, Colorado! Sweepstakes ends on 12/31/2015.
Check out The Polar Express Pintrest Board!
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Enter below using the Rafflecopter form for a chance to win your own copy of The Polar Express 30th Anniversary Edition Book! Giveaway is open to residents of All 50 U.S. States, 18 years of age or older. Giveaway ends on Sunday, 11/15 at midnight.
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Disclosure: I received a copy of The Polar Express 30th Anniversary Edition Book in exchange for my post. No other compensation was exchanged or received.
