The 21 Balloons
Sale price
$858
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 1947 · Est. 4.5 hour read

The 21 Balloons

Written by William Pene du Bois

A professor's flight goes awry, leading to a mysterious island of wealth and inventions.

4.0 Goodreads · 26,388 ratings
192 pages· 32,795 words· Est. 4.5 hour read· 1070L
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Bookroo's summary

Professor William Waterman Sherman's Pacific flight takes an unexpected turn, landing him on Krakatoa. There, he uncovers a hidden world brimming with unimaginable riches, quirky residents, and astonishing balloon inventions. As he navigates this peculiar island, questions arise: What secrets lie beneath its surface, and how will he ever return home? This adventure promises a blend of fantasy and discovery, challenging Sherman to rethink his journey and its true purpose. Will he embrace the wonders of Krakatoa or find a way back to the skies?

From the publisher

A Newbery Medal Winner

Professor William Waterman Sherman intends to fly across the Pacific Ocean. But through a twist of fate, he lands on Krakatoa, and discovers a world of unimaginable wealth, eccentric inhabitants, and incredible balloon inventions.Winner of the 1948 Newbery Medal, this classic fantasy-adventure is now available in a handsome new edition.

“William Pene du Bois combines his rich imagination, scientific tastes, and brilliant artistry to tell a story that has no age limit.” —The Horn Book

Awards

Newbery Medal (1948)
At a glance
Format
Pages
192
Words
32,795
Reading age
8–12
Audience
Middle Grade
Lexile
1070L
Themes & topics
The author

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The fine print

Book details

Reading levels
ATOS
6.8
F&P level
~Z
AR points
6
AR interest level
MG
AR quiz
91
Publication
Published
April 21, 2005
First published
September 14, 1947
Publisher
Puffin Books
Edition
Language
English
Type
Chapter Book
Identifiers
ISBN
9780142403303

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