Independently published middle grade books rarely get the recognition they deserve. Authors don’t have a big publishing house leading the way and often their book is only available in paperback. But when I have an opening to feature a good one I jump at the chance.

THE BOY IN THE BALLOON is a modern fantasy tale about 11-year-old Ben. He hasn’t had much success living in foster homes. His fourth family is a nice couple who let him have two dogs.

He bonds immediately with his two pets, but eventually his foster parents worry it’s his only interest. The mom’s solution is to get rid of the dogs.

No way will Ben let this happen so he plots his escape. Then something fantastic happens. A balloon with a ship attached (The F.S Quest) arrives at his bedroom window.

Ben and his canine mates jump aboard where magic is the main attraction. The dogs are now able to talk and a guide who looks like a chimpanzee is there to help but often doesn’t stay around for long. He first teaches Ben how to drive the ship balloon before Ben learns he is on a quest.

He can either save a young girl and her brother who need to be rescued from an awful family who has kidnapped them or just sail away leaving them to fend for themselves. Ben chooses to be the hero.

Dangerous beings set out to stop him and certain members of the family where the two kids are trapped don’t care if they bring harm to Ben. It’s not what he expected and thinks he made the wrong decision. Living with foster parents Sam and Myrna was not working, and this is even worse. He bravely comes up with a plan.

The third person narration moves along at a nice pace through 21 chapters. Even if Ben does end up rescuing these two kids you will still wonder what will happen to him. Will he just stay on the balloon forever, go home, or find a new place to live?

THE BOY IN THE BALLOON is an exciting story with an awful antagonist that will have you rooting for Ben to find the life he really wants. Highly recommended to those middle graders who enjoy modern fantasy.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: October 28, 2024 PAGE COUNT: 230

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: THE BOY IN THE BALLOON by D.A. Schaeffer

1. The colorful, enticing cover is sure to bring more readers closer to giving this one a try. They won’t be disappointed.
2. The hurt a child goes through when they don’t belong is perfectly depicted here. Ben’s only connection is with his dogs. He needs a human family but hasn’t connected with the right one.
3. Themes of Friendship and Family get heartfelt attention. This would make a great read-aloud.
4. Dog lovers will enjoy having these two dogs talk while still keeping their dog like behavior intact.
5. Since this is Book One of The PURLANDION Chronicles, it had me wondering whether Ben will return as a character or will the balloon refocus on a new adventure with a different protagonist. Ben is someone you will want to spend more time with which also demonstrates the thoughtful way his character was depicted.

Who are you D.A. Schaeffer ?

An author and pastor for 40 years, I have written articles, scripts, study guides, and ten books. My work has received several writing awards and appeared in two anthologies, including A 3rd Helping of Chicken Soup for the Soul. I have loved reading since I was a young child, and writing since I attempted to get my first article published. My favorite authors are CS Lewis, Tim Keller, J.R. Tolkien, Kenneth Grahame, and J.K. Rowling (in no particular order). (Website)

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