Chris Van Allsburg

Retired Author & Illustrator of Children's Books; Best Known for "The Polar Express"

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Chris Van Allsburg Biography

Chris Van Allsburg is one of America’s most innovative picture book creators. Since 1979, his books have blurred the line between fantasy and reality. His illustrations are provocative and eerie, often hinting at an alternate reality lurking behind the next page. His book Jumanji and its sequel Zathura became a series of Hollywood films. His most recognized book, "The Polar Express," was also adapted for the big screen and is one of the bestselling children's books of all time.

Van Allsburg was raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and received his undergraduate degree at the University of Michigan, where he majored in sculpture, learning bronze casting, wood carving, resin molding, and other techniques. He continued his studies at the Rhode Island School of Design, graduating with a master's degree in sculpture. Shortly after receiving his graduate degree, Van Allsburg began to show his sculptures in New York City galleries.

He began drawing in the winter of 1977, when his teaching commitments at Rhode Island School of Design and a poorly heated sculpture studio far across town discouraged his customary night-time work schedule. At home, in the evening, he began creating drawings that suggested strange narratives. His wife, Lisa, an elementary school art teacher who used picture books in her classroom, thought her husband’s work might be suitable for children's books. She showed his work to an editor, who encouraged Van Allsburg to think about writing a story that would suit the character of the pictures he wanted to make. His first book, The Garden of Abdul Gasazi, was published in 1979.

Van Allsburg has written and/or illustrated 21 books. He was awarded the Caldecott Medal for Jumanji and The Polar Express and received a Caldecott Honor for The Garden of Abdul Gasazi. He has received the Regina Medal for lifetime achievement in children’s literature, a National Book Award, and has been inducted into The Society of Illustrators Hall of Fame, among many other honors. He lives outside of Boston, Massachusetts.

Chris Van Allsburg Videos

  • Chris Van Allsburg: His Final Presentation
    Chris Van Allsburg is one of America's most innovative picture book creators.
  • Behind the Pages: Chris Van Allsburg & 'The Polar Express' - YouTube
  • Two-time Caldecott medalist

Speaker Lists Featuring Chris Van Allsburg

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  • What topics does Chris Van Allsburg speak about?

    Chris Van Allsburg is a keynote speaker and industry expert whose speaking topics include Art, Authors.
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Chris Van Allsburg is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics . The estimated speaking fee range to book Chris Van Allsburg for your event is $20,000 - $30,000. Chris Van Allsburg generally travels from and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Laura Numeroff, Gale Galligan, Christian Robinson, Elisha Cooper and Jed Dearybury. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Chris Van Allsburg for an upcoming live or virtual event.

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