Airman

Reach for this book when your child is struggling with a sense of injustice, feeling unfairly blamed, or needing to see how brilliance can shine even in the darkest circumstances. Set in the late 19th century, Airman follows Conor Broekhart, a young polymath born in a hot air balloon who is framed for a murder by a power-hungry marshal. Thrown into the brutal Diamond Rock prison, Conor must use his scientific mind and engineering skills to survive and plan a daring escape by air. It is a sophisticated historical adventure that explores themes of resilience, the weight of false accusations, and the triumph of the human spirit through creativity. While the setting is historical, the emotional journey of overcoming betrayal and rebuilding oneself from scratch is timeless. It is ideal for mature readers aged 11 and up who enjoy high-stakes tension and intricate world-building.