The Twenty-One Balloons (Puffin Modern Classics)

William Pene du Bois

Apr 2005 · Sold by Penguin

About this ebook

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 astory that has no age limit."—The Horn Book

Ratings and reviews

This book I stumbled upon at school in the 5th grade sometime in the mid-80s. Our teacher had a bookshelf full all sorts of books, and I was in the habit of perusing them when we had time to ourselves. I never finished ANY of the books I looked at. Except this one. I have a really worn-out copy that I reread after over 30-odd years. The story still holds up even after all that time

This book is amazing and family friendly. It sparks imagination in all of us, and is an easy read. Loved the story line. There is so much detail to express the scenery. 10/10

I have loved this book since elementary School. So imaginative. I highly recommend for young children or adults who enjoy an easy read.

About the author

William Pène du Bois (1916–1993) was an American writer and illustrator who is best remembered for his books for young readers. He was one of the founders of The Paris Review and illustrated books by Jules Verne, John Steinbeck, Isaac Bashevis Singer, Charlotte Zolotow, and others. He won the 1948 Newbery Medal for The Twenty-One Balloons and received two Caldecott Honors for his illustrations for Bear Party and Lion.