The Big Balloon Race

Gr 2—4—Eleanor Coerr's beginning chapter book is based on the true account of one of America's most popular balloonists. According to the author's note at the end of the book, Mary Myers, who was better known as Carlotta the Lady Aeronaut, "made more ascensions in hydrogen balloons than any other aeronaut of her time." In this story, set in 1882, Carlotta's daughter stows away in her mother's balloon, unintentionally adding extra weight to the craft and almost costing her mother the race. Carolyn Croll's beautiful watercolor illustrations enhance this delightful tale. Bonnie Kelley-Young's narration is well paced, and appropriate sound effects and background music add to the telling. Page-turn signals are optional. For public and school library collections.—Amy Joslyn, Fairport Public Library, NY