About This Book
Mordicai Gerstein's Caldecott Medal-winning picture book beautifully captures the true story of Philippe Petit, a French aerialist who, in 1974, secretly planned and executed an illegal tightrope walk between the then-newly built World Trade Center towers in New York City. The lyrical text and dramatic illustrations convey the immense planning, courage, and sheer joy of Petit's 'coup of the century.' It's a story of following an impossible dream, perseverance against odds, and finding freedom in artistic expression. While the act itself involves danger, the book focuses on the wonder and triumph, making it a powerful read-aloud for children aged 4-8, sparking conversations about bravery, creativity, and historical events.
A lyrical evocation of Philippe Petit's 1974 tightrope walk between the World Trade Center towers.
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Discussion Prompts
1
Philippe Petit called his walk 'the coup of the century.' What do you think that means?
2
What do you think it felt like for Philippe to be up on that wire, so high above the city?
3
Philippe spent a lot of time planning his walk. Why do you think planning is important when you have a big dream?
4
The judge gave Philippe a special sentence. What does that tell you about how people felt about his walk?
5
What is something you dream of doing that might seem impossible to others?
External Reviews
Awards
1 award
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