Flight for Freedom: The Wetzel Family's Daring Escape from East Germany

by Kristen Fulton Narrated by Jonathan Todd Ross

Overview

Peter was born on the east side of Germany, the side that wasn't free. He watches news programs rather than cartoons, and wears scratchy uniforms instead of blue jeans. His family endures long lines and early curfews. But Peter knows it won't always be this way. Peter and his family have a secret. Late at night in their attic, they are piecing together a hot-air balloon-and a plan.

Can Peter and his family fly their way to freedom?

This is the true story of one child, Peter Wetzel, and his family, as they risk their lives for the hope of freedom in a daring escape from East Germany via a handmade hot-air balloon in 1979.

Editorial Reviews

From the Publisher

These events seem too incredible to be true, but they really happened. The dramatic exit and daring flight will hold readers in suspense. . . [Flight for Freedom], like The Wall by Peter Sís, will encourage [young readers] to learn more [about the Cold War].”—School Library Journal

“[T]hrilling. . . ‘Flight for Freedom’ manages to be suspenseful, as well as beautifully presented. It’s timely, too.”—Wall Street Journal

“Flight for Freedom is a model historical picture book… Older readers (and adults!) are likely to want to learn more… [T]his gem of a book brings the historical setting vividly to life under its own steam.”—Booklist, Starred Review

“This thrilling account, based on an event that took place in 1979, offers young readers a sense of why a family might risk everything to emigrate.”—Shelf Awareness

Wall Street Journal

Thrilling.”

Shelf Awareness

Offers young readers a sense of why a family might risk everything to emigrate.”

Booklist (starred review)

This gem of a book brings the historical setting vividly to life.”

Product Details

BN ID:	2940192003572
Publisher:	Recorded Books, LLC
Publication date:	10/22/2024
Edition description:	Unabridged
Age Range:	5 - 8 Years

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