Queen of the Falls

Strengths: This book is typical Van Allsburg with an intriguing story, never before told in picture book format. What is especially interesting is that this is a true story. I guess sometimes truth really is stranger than fiction. The author starts by putting us at the top of the waterfall with Annie, just as she is about to go over the falls (without telling us who is in the barrel). Then he explains why Annie decided to do such a crazy stunt, she hoped it would make her rich, so she wouldn't have to try to eke out a living as a store clerk or cleaning lady. The same reasons that people do such seemingly crazy stunts today, fame and fortune. The writing is smooth-flowing and tells the story well, but it's the illustrations that make the story stand out. Unfortunately, for Annie she wasn't young and beautiful and as a result the public wasn't interested in hearing her story. The facial expressions are fantastic and show clearly the feelings of the people involved, the spectators, barrel makers, Annie herself, and her 'manager.' Normally I prefer color illustrations, but Van Allsburg's are so superb that color doesn't seem to matter, in fact the black and white seem to help delineate the feeling of the historical era.Weaknesses: I have to admit, I don't really see any weaknesses in this particular book, except maybe the length. Like many of Van Allsburg's books, this one has a lot of writing, making it more appropriate as a read-a-loud for an older audience.

I don't believe the story of Annie Taylor is well known by a significant number of people. She was a teacher in the Bay City area of Michigan (also in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan), and hoped to become wealthy by going over Niagara Falls in a barrel and then traveling around the country telling her story. Although she survived the stunt the wealth was not forthcoming. Several others have attempted to duplicate the stunt. Some were successful while others paid with their lives. Annie Taylor was the first in the year 1901. It took a woman to become the trailblazer for others to follow. A school teacher, if you please.I feel the story was well-told with appropriate photos. Details are provided as to why the barrel was a certain size, how and where she was placed upstream from the falls, and her manager (agent) who was to spread the word in advance of her plunge. This should be a very interesting addition to an elementary school library which is not likely to have this story on its shelves.

This book was required summer reading for my 9 year old daughter. She enjoyed it very much and loved the illustrations. I read it just so I would be familiar with it in order to help her with the project she had to do for this book and I enjoyed it as well. Chris Van Allsburg is a wonderful illustrator. We were familiar with his fiction books, like Polar Express & Jumanji. Pleasantly surprised that he has also written non-fiction about historical people and events. He chose a great story to relay to the younger generation, Annie Taylor was quite a fiesty lady!

A unique book (which book is not?)The pencil drawing is fantastic, and story is intriguing. Although some say the main character's motive and state of mind may mislead young readers, I say let the kids read all kinds of books to make their own judgement and decisions.The book I bought was an used one, with several missing pages or cutout pages. The seller (not amazon) promptly refunded me the full amount without asking me to ship it back. The book is not usable anyway. I ended up borrowing one from school library.The four star rating is as if I have bought a new one. This is a good book.

This story of a woman who went over the falls because a life as a shop keeper wasn't going to provide enough income and status is interesting. It didn't deliver the emotional impact I expected, though I had no idea I expected one until it didn't happen. I'm not sure how Allsburg would have done that, but I always think he can do most anything. It is quite a story, she is an odd personality (my opinion clearly), and it leaves a lot of room for discussion which served us well in the classroom. It doesn't have the usual (beloved) Allsburg mystery/weirdness...except for her realer than life choice(s), and I guess I missed that.

Amazing true story! Chris Van Allsburg usually writes fantasies but this one is a true story. It’s about the first person to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel! As a fourth grade teacher, I use it in class to teach setting. The time and place are described so well. Also had great discussions about attitudes toward woman in 1901! As usual Chris Van Allsburg is a master of artwork! Excellent book for a variety of ages!

Quite different since this is based in fact. An eye-opening story about a very brave lady, all B/W illustrations.

You are never bored when reading Van Allsburg. I have read this particular book several times to my grandsons and we find something new each time.

Set in America in 1901, this is the true story of a 62 year old widow who in order to avoid ending up in the poor house, decided to do something, "...no one in the world had ever done before. Annie Taylor would go over Niagara Falls in a barrel."Chris Van Allsburg's illustrations are always excellent. Many of his books are written with little or no words. This however, is a tale told in words and pictures. The story is beautifully written: concise yet complex and exciting enough to interest older readers, intrigue adults and catch the imagination of younger children.This unusual woman is no stereotypical heroine. Does she succeed? Does she achieve fame and fortune? As always in any well written book, there's a subtle but thought provoking twist in the conclusion. Enjoy!

Chris Van Alsberg is supreme in writing and illustrating books for young people. And this book celebrates an individual who was never recognised for her achievement. Such an amazing body of work deserves celebration itself. The books have won so many awards and decorated the movie screen.

Beautiful pictures. A super book.

This book brought much to light for myself and my students. We had some great discussions generated as a result of this book. I even stretched it out as a spin-off for a STEM challenge.Great book!

Me encantan todos los cuentos de Chris Van Alsburg, y éste no es la excepción. Siempre encontrarás al final de la historia, un giro inesperado.