★“[T]his gem of a book brings the historical setting vividly to life under its own steam.”
—Booklist, starred review
An Inspiring True Story about One Family's Escape from Behind the Berlin Wall!
Peter was born on the east side of Germany, the side that wasn't free. He watches news programs rather than cartoons, and wears scratchy uniforms instead of blue jeans. His family endures long lines and early curfews. But Peter knows it won't always be this way. Peter and his family have a secret. Late at night in their attic, they are piecing together a hot air balloon—and a plan. Can Peter and his family fly their way to freedom? This is the true story of one child, Peter Wetzel, and his family, as they risk their lives for the hope of freedom in a daring escape from East Germany via a handmade hot air balloon in 1979.
• A perfect picture book for educators teaching about the Cold War, the Iron Curtain, and East Germany
• Flight for Freedom is a showcase for lessons of bravery, heroism, family, and perseverance, as well as stunning history.
• Includes detailed maps of the Wetzel family's escape route and diagrams of their hot air balloon
For fans of historical nonfiction picture books like Let the Children March, The Wall, Growing Up Behind the Iron Curtain, Armstrong: The Adventurous Journey of a Mouse to the Moon.
Torben Kuhlmann is an award-winning children's book author and illustrator. Starting in kindergarten he became known as "the draftsman." Flying machines and rich historical detail often adorn his work. He lives in Hamburg, Germany.
★“Flight for Freedom is a model historical picture book… Older readers (and adults!) are likely to want to learn more… [T]his gem of a book brings the historical setting vividly to life under its own steam.”
—Booklist, starred review
“These events seem too incredible to be true, but they really happened. The dramatic exit and daring flight will hold readers in suspense. . . [Flight for Freedom], like The Wall by Peter Sís, will encourage [young readers] to learn more [about the Cold War].”
—School Library Journal
“[T]hrilling. . . ‘Flight for Freedom’ manages to be suspenseful, as well as beautifully presented. It’s timely, too.”
—Wall Street Journal
“This thrilling account, based on an event that took place in 1979, offers young readers a sense of why a family might risk everything to emigrate.”
—Shelf Awareness