Will I love Polar Express?

Just try to read this book to a child around the holidays and not cry! I go to this book when I feel too wrapped up in the busyness of the holiday season and forget what it is really about. The story and the illustrations are beautiful. But it is the message that has me blinking back tears every time.

The little boy’s lost reindeer’s bell from Santa appearing magically under his tree, ringing its beautiful sound Christmas morning, is just the first reason it’s so wonderful. But then VanAllsburg says that the grownups cannot hear it ring! How can… show more.

It’s the cover from the movie that I love the most, which my daughter has watched to death. My son’s just getting into reading, so he’ll be getting this to open on the big day. The train in the snow screams Christmas to me. Shame when he wanted a Nintendo Switch.

This recent addition to the list of classic holiday books is a joy to look at—full of gorgeous, atmospheric illustrations. If this book doesn’t get you into the holiday spirit, nothing will. The profound message wrapped in this packaging is that seeing (or hearing) magical things requires belief in magical things. It’s a cautionary tale, warning against adult cynicism. That’s worth remembering, year after year.