Books Like The Twenty-One Balloons
Families who loved The Twenty-One Balloons by William Pène du Bois often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Families who loved The Twenty-One Balloons by William Pène du Bois often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child is feeling restless with the everyday and needs a sophisticated, imaginative escape into a world of 'what if.' It is perfect for the dreamer who loves gadgets, architecture, and the idea of a secret civilization hidden from the rest of the world. The story follows Professor Sherman, who attempts to fly across the Pacific in a balloon but crashes on the volcanic island of Krakatoa, where twenty families live in luxury supported by a secret diamond mine. While the book celebrates engineering and creativity, it also explores themes of community, the ethics of wealth, and the joy of intellectual independence. It is a brilliant choice for children ages 8 to 12 who enjoy dry wit and detailed descriptions of impossible inventions.
