by Gary Paulsen
First published 1979
Gary Paulsen combines sharp wit with practical knowledge in this entertaining look at hot air ballooning. Professional balloonists share their experiences through photographs while Paulsen provides commentary that finds humor in every aspect of the sport. He covers the technical challenges of launching a balloon, the exhilaration of soaring high above the ground, and the sometimes tricky business of bringing everything back down safely. The book captures both the joy and the occasional mishaps that come with floating through the sky in a wicker basket. Paulsen's observations reveal the personalities and quirks of the ballooning community while offering insights into what draws people to this unique form of flight. The combination of visual documentation and Paulsen's distinctive voice creates an engaging portrait of a sport that requires both skill and a sense of adventure.
Genres: humor, adventure, non-fiction, aviation
Vibes: humorous, informative, thought-provoking
Tropes: informative-narrative, personal-anecdotes
31 pages · Library Binding · Heinemann/Raintree