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Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
The Boy in the Balloon: The Tiger and the Pocket Watch by Katie York Eroe centers on Jesse, a nine-year-old boy living with his inventor parents in a flying hot-air balloon house. Jesse’s life is already unusual, shaped by constant travel and curiosity-driven learning, but it becomes even more extraordinary when he discovers he can understand and speak with animals. His companions include Puddle, a crowned frog with refined manners and strong opinions, and Sushi, a goldfish whose enthusiasm often lands him in trouble. The story introduces readers to inventive parents, lively animal communities, and a world where curiosity and kindness guide each interaction. The narrative blends humor, imagination, and gentle tension, setting the stage for future installments while offering a complete adventure of its own.
Katie York Eroe’s playful, descriptive style is well-suited to middle-grade readers who enjoy richly imagined worlds. The pacing moves confidently between quiet moments of wonder and lively dialogue, especially in exchanges between Jesse and the animals. Each character has a distinct voice, with Puddle’s formality and Sushi’s impulsiveness providing steady contrast and charm. The language invites young readers to picture each setting clearly, supported by illustrations that evoke a classic storybook feel. Chapters are structured to keep the story moving while allowing time to linger on imaginative details, making it easy for readers to stay engaged. The Boy in the Balloon’s whimsical adventure, inventive tone, and talking animal companions are reminiscent of classic middle-grade fantasies in the spirit of Roald Dahl and Kate DiCamillo.
