10 Facts about Chris Van Allsburg
Facts about Chris Van Allsburg present the interesting information about the notable writer and illustrator of children’s books from America. He was born on 18 June 1949 in East Grand Rapids, Michigan. He writes two popular books. Both are The Polar Express (1985) and Jumanji (1981). The latter one makes him earn two Caldecott Medals for U.S. picture book illustration. Both of them are adapted into movies. Check other interesting facts about Allsburg below:
Facts about Chris Van Allsburg 1: The Garden of Abdul Gasazi
The Garden of Abdul Gasazi is a book of Allsburg. In 1980, the book made him get the Caldecott runner-up.
Facts about Chris Van Allsburg 2: a nominee
He was nominated for Hans Christian Andersen Award in 1986 due to his contribution as an illustrator for children’s books.
Facts about Chris Van Allsburg 3: an honorary degree
In April 2012, University of Michigan awarded Allsburg with an honorary degree of Humane Letters.
Facts about Chris Van Allsburg 4: the early life
The parents of Allsburg were Richard and Doris Christianen Van Allsburg. He was the second child in the family. In 1947, the mother gave birth to his older sister. The family lived in an old farm house when his mother gave birth to Chris Allsburg.
Facts about Chris Van Allsburg 5: moving
His family moved several times. When Allsburg was three years old, the family relocated to a new house. The location was at Grand Rapids’ edge. He reached his elementary school by foot due to the close distance between his class and the house. But his family resided again at East Grand Rapids.
Facts about Chris Van Allsburg 6: the education
Allsburg was educated at College of Architecture and Design, University of Michigan. He was interested to learn wood carving, bronze casting, sculpture, resin molding and others. In 1972, he graduated from the university. Then he was enrolled to Rhode Island School of Design. In 1975, he graduated with a master degree.
Facts about Chris Van Allsburg 7: a sculpture studio
He created a sculpture studio after graduating with a master degree of sculpture. Check Facts about Chris Crutcher here.
Facts about Chris Van Allsburg 8: the problem
Allsburg decided to create sketches at home because he had problem with the time in the studio. His wife stated that Allsburg could make great illustration for children’s books from the drawings.
Facts about Chris Van Allsburg 9: The Garden of Abdul Gasazi
The Garden of Abdul Gasazi was published in 1979. It was the first book written by Allsburg. He decided to write this book after his drawings were shown to children’s book editor. Get Facts about Chris Priestley here.
Facts about Chris Van Allsburg 10: the personal life
His wife is Lisa Van Allsburg. Both are blessed with two kids, Sophia and Anna. The family lives in Providence, Rhode Island.
Are you impressed after reading facts about Chris Van Allsburg?