Week #1 Classics

Why Is This Book Considered A Classic?

  The book I chose as a classic for week one is called, "The Polar Express," by Chris Van Allsburg. This particular story is considered a classic because of the realistic artistic style of the illustrations in the book. The story line creates a very unique and legendary outlook on the story of Christmas. It's not preachy and it creates a tale that can be shared with a large audience.  This story is for all ages and backgrounds. It is not confined to one race or religion. Mainly, it's a fictional story about a boy who wakes up in the middle of the night, only to discover there's a train outside of his house. He climbs aboard the train and learns he's riding to the North Pole, along with other children. Once he arrives at the North Pole, he see's workshops and elves that make toys. As he's standing in an audience of children, the boy finally see's Santa. Santa then picks the boy out of all the children, and he gives him a magic bell that you can only hear if you believe. Now, the story does not directly say what a person should believe or have faith in. However, it leaves ideas open to interpretation about Santa's existences. Overall, this book is timeless. It has received at least one award and even has a movie. This is why, "The Polar Express," is a classic.  

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