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An Inspiring True Story about One Family's Escape from Behind the Berlin Wall!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.• A perfect picture book for educators teaching about the Cold War, the Iron Curtain, and East Germany• Flight for Freedom is a showcase for lessons of bravery, heroism, family, and perseverance, as well as stunning history.• Includes detailed maps of the Wetzel family's escape route and diagrams of their hot air balloonFor fans of historical nonfiction picture books like Let the Children March, The Wall, Growing Up Behind the Iron Curtain, Armstrong: The Adventurous Journey of a Mouse to the Moon.• True life escape stories• For picture book readers age 5–9• For teachers, librarians, and historiansKristen Fulton is a children's book author. She can always be found with a notebook in hand as she ventures through historical sites and museums. Most of the time she lives in Florida—but she can also be found traveling the country by RV. Torben Kuhlmann is an award-winning children's book author and illustrator. Starting in kindergarten he became known as the draftsman. Flying machines and rich historical detail often adorn his work. He lives in Hamburg, Germany.

Embark on a thrilling journey with "Flight for Freedom: The Wetzel Family's Daring Escape from East Germany," a captivating nonfiction picture book that brings history to life for young readers. This book, written by Kristen Fulton, tells the extraordinary true story of the Wetzel family's audacious escape from East Germany during the Cold War era.

In the 1970s, East Germany was a communist country with strict border controls and limited freedoms. The Wetzel family, yearning for a life of liberty, dared to dream of escaping to West Germany. Their daring plan involved constructing a hot air balloon and floating over the heavily guarded Berlin Wall, a symbol of division that separated East and West Germany.

With meticulous planning and unwavering determination, the Wetzels meticulously crafted their makeshift balloon using bedsheets, plastic, and other materials they could find. They faced numerous challenges and setbacks along the way, but their resilience and resourcefulness never wavered. As the day of their daring escape approached, they anxiously awaited the right weather conditions and carefully coordinated their every move.

On the fateful night of their escape, the Wetzels successfully launched their balloon and embarked on their perilous journey. As they soared above the sleeping city, they navigated treacherous winds and darkness, their hearts pounding with anticipation and fear. Their harrowing flight took them over East German territory, where they narrowly evaded detection by searchlights and military patrols.

With unwavering courage and determination, the Wetzel family persevered through the night, eventually reaching West German airspace. Their successful escape sparked international attention and became a symbol of hope and freedom for those living under oppressive regimes. "Flight for Freedom" not only tells a gripping tale of adventure but also highlights the enduring power of human resilience and the longing for liberty.

This nonfiction picture book is a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who dared to break free from oppression. With vivid illustrations and accessible language, Kristen Fulton brings this remarkable story to life, inspiring young readers to learn about history, appreciate the value of freedom, and understand the true meaning of courage.