Queen of the Falls

Title: Queen of the Falls
Author: Chris Van Allsburg
ISBN: 978-0-547-31581-2
Copyright: 2011

Chris Van Allsburgs stunning monochromatic drawings bring to life the story of Annie Edison Taylor, a retired charm school teacher.  As less and less students begin signing up to attend classes at Mrs. Taylors Charm School in Bay City, Michigan, Annie decided that it was time for a change!  Since apparently no one cared about "the correct fork to use at dinner, the usefulness of handkerchiefs, and how to properly waltz," perhaps they would care about action, adventure, danger, and recklessness.

Suddenly an idea came to Annie; she would make a fortune as the first woman to ever go over Niagra Falls in a barrel!  For anyone who hasn't visited Niagra Falls, it is huge!  The falls itself is as tall as a 17 story building and the rushing water draws tourists all year round.

Annie Edison Taylor at sixty two years old is brought to life by Chris Van Allsburg.  Children will be enthralled to follow the story through the images.  As it comes closer to the appointed time for Annie to go over the falls readers will be amazed to discover the true grit and stubbornness that a former charm school teacher can contain.  As person after person tells Annie that she can't possibly survive a trip over the falls Annie grits her teeth, smiles and tells them all that she will see everyone shortly. 

To discover whether or not Annie survives the trip, and whether she manages to become rich off of her adventure you will need to check out Queen of the Falls by Chris Van Allsburg.  Plus while you are checking out this book make sure to grab a few other picture book biographies to read at home!