Review: Jake's Balloon Blast

Jake wants to fly. He wants it so badly, he's thought of all the options: rockets, planes, private planes, helicopters, and asking his Dad for help. None of them look like they're going to work, though.

Then he comes up with a plan. Wings are what he needs, so he makes himself a set.

Fail.
The next thing he tries is a number of balloons. Surely, with enough of them, he'll be able to fly?

The result is amazing, and Jake will find himself learning to dream big.

Jake's Balloon Blast is all about positivity: dream, work hard and you might just find a way to achieve your goals. It's about thinking laterally, asking for help, trying different things and using the resources around you.

Spillman's use of humour and fun in the book are contagious, making readers smile.

Nixon's illustrations, in black and white sketch form, are cute and funny, adding some gorgeous expression to the story.

This is an uplifting (excuse the pun) story for young children.

Title: Jake's Balloon Blast
Author: Ken Spillman
Illustrator: Chris Nixon
Publisher: Fremantle Press, $10.95
Publication Date: 1 March, 2011
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781921696558
For ages: 6+
Type: Junior Fiction