Hot Air: The (Mostly) True Story of the First Hot-Air Balloon Ride

A parent might reach for this book when their child is captivated by flight or curious about how big ideas come to life. It tells the delightfully chaotic and mostly true story of the Montgolfier brothers, who invented the hot-air balloon in 18th century France, and their first passengers: a sheep, a duck, and a rooster. The book masterfully blends historical facts with humor and whimsy, making it perfect for children ages 5 to 8. It's a fantastic choice for sparking interest in history and science, celebrating the messy, brilliant process of invention, perseverance, and the courage to try something completely new.