The Twenty-One Balloons Bullet Points - William Pene du Bois

Dive into the whimsical adventure of 'The Twenty-One Balloons' where creativity, friendship, and bravery collide on the island of Krakatoa!

Sunday, September 28, 2025

The Twenty-One Balloons (Puffin Modern Classics), written by William Pene du Bois

  • Setting the Stage: The story begins in 1914 with a retired schoolteacher, Professor William Waterman Sherman, who has a whimsical love for balloons and exploration.
  • Unexpected Journey: Professor Sherman embarks on an incredible voyage across the Pacific Ocean in a hot-air balloon, which ultimately leads him to an unexpected adventure.
  • Arrival at Krakatoa: His balloon lands on the mysterious and exotic island of Krakatoa, which has an enormous volcanic mountain at its center.
  • Astonishing Discoveries: On the island, he encounters a peculiar society of people living in elaborate luxury, all sustained by their ability to harness the island's rich resources.
  • Curious Characters: The island is home to a variety of colorful characters, including families with unique roles that contribute to their ballooning world.
  • Fascinating Inventions: The inhabitants have engineered an impressive collection of balloons for various purposes, showcasing their creativity and ingenuity.
  • Climactic Confrontation: The peaceful life on Krakatoa is soon disrupted by the looming threat of the island's volcanic activity, prompting uncertainty and urgency among its residents.
  • Friendship and Teamwork: As an unexpected disaster unfolds, Professor Sherman and the islanders must work together, using their skills and resourcefulness to survive.
  • Lessons in Adventure: The tale highlights themes of exploration, bravery, friendship, and the importance of creativity in the face of challenges.
  • Conclusion: The adventure concludes with Sherman's return to society, forever changed by his experiences, leaving readers to reflect on the balance between aspiration and reality.

Reading The Twenty-One Balloons was an exhilarating journey filled with witty creativity and thrilling adventure! 🌈✨️ I was captivated by the imaginative world of Krakatoa and the inventive spirit of its characters. This book not only entertains but also sparks the imagination in a vibrant way. Don't miss your chance to explore this whimsical universe! 📚🎈

Author's photo - Kevin Brooks
Kevin Brooks

I turn the books I love into bite-sized guides that help people decide what to read next. Back in high school-at a public school outside Columbus, Ohio-my classmates counted on my clear, concise summaries to study smarter, not harder. 


As I graduate this spring, I'm gearing up to pursue a degree in Digital Marketing and share my passion for reading by crafting engaging, actionable content for fellow book enthusiasts.

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➡️ The Twenty-One Balloons (Puffin Modern Classics)

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