Flight for Freedom

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. The human-centered historical context and gripping storyline will also call out to older readers and adults. IMMERSIVE BACKMATTER: Extensive backmatter, which includes a map of Peter’s journey over the wall, a diagram of the balloon itself, an explanation of how much cloth and gasoline were needed to construct and fly the balloon, some of the history and science behind hot air balloons, and what happened to the family after they landed, will satisfy readers interested in learning more.