Chris Van Allsburg

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.

Presented with support from the Ann Arbor District Library. This project was made possible by a grant from the Arts Initiative at the University of Michigan.

Series presenting partners: Detroit Public Television and PBS Books. Media partner: Michigan Radio.