A short life of the author
Chris Van Allsburg (b. 18 June 1949) was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He studied sculpture at the University of Michigan and the Rhode Island School of Design.
Life and Career
The Garden of Abdul Gasazi (1979) — his debut picture book, about a boy who enters a mysterious garden — won a Caldecott Honor. Jumanji (1981) — about two children who discover a board game that brings the jungle into their living room — won the Caldecott Medal and was adapted into a 1995 film starring Robin Williams.
The Polar Express (1985) — about a boy who takes a train to the North Pole on Christmas Eve — won a second Caldecott Medal and became one of the bestselling picture books of all time. The 2004 animated film adaptation was a major commercial success.
The Mysteries of Harris Burdick (1984) — a portfolio of fourteen illustrations, each accompanied only by a title and a single line of text, presented as the work of a missing author — is his most conceptually inventive book and has inspired decades of creative writing exercises.
Major Works and Themes
Van Allsburg creates picture books about the intrusion of the fantastic into everyday life. His illustrations — which use dramatic perspective, chiaroscuro lighting, and surrealist composition — give his books an atmospheric density rare in children’s literature.
Key Works
- Jumanji (1981) — Caldecott Medal
- The Polar Express (1985) — Caldecott Medal
Collecting Van Allsburg
The Polar Express first edition (Houghton Mifflin, 1985) in fine condition with dust jacket brings $200–$500. Jumanji first edition brings $100–$300. Van Allsburg signs at select events.