About this book

When Princess Leora’s father, the king, is away, she is left in the care of the archduke, who plans to take over the kingdom. Leora’s danger signal to her father — a bouquet of balloons let loose in the sky — is foiled when the archduke orders every balloon in the kingdom to be popped. Leora sneaks away and, with the help of the Wizard and a boy with the only balloon left, she plants a tree that will save them all.

First published in 1984, The Balloon Tree is a true Canadian classic from the bestselling creator of Jillian Jiggs and Something from Nothing.

Reviews

Praise for The Balloon Tree:

“While the story entertains, then, the illustrations of Gilman’s book persistently fascinate and often amuse.” — Canadian Children’s Literature

“Over the years this book has charmed and delighted many children now all grown up and ready to read it to their own five-year-olds . . . older children might apricate a quiet hour with books that are beautiful to look at, fun to read, but not too long or complicated.” (20th anniversary edition) — City Parent

“The book is a perfect meld of words and pictures . . . The exquisite details free the text to tell the story actively, with no wasted words.” — The Newfoundland and Signal

“Illustrations sparkle with life.” — The Ottawa Citizen

“What an uplifting experience! . . . The story has a vibrant rhythm that will appeal to children’s natural curiosity.” — Resource Links