Professor William Waterman Sherman intends to fly across the Pacific Ocean. But through a twist of fate, he lands on Krakatoa, and discovers a world of unimaginable wealth, eccentric inhabitants, and incredible balloon inventions.Winner of the 1948 Newbery Medal, this classic fantasy-adventure is now available in a handsome new edition."William Pne du Bois combines his rich imagination, scientific tastes, and brilliant artistry to tell a story that has no age limit." -- The Horn Book

William?Pene?du Bois?(1916–1993) was an American writer and illustrator who is best remembered for his books for young readers. He was one of the founders of?The Paris Review?and illustrated books by Jules Verne, John Steinbeck, Isaac Bashevis Singer,?Charlotte Zolotow, and others. He won the 1948 Newbery Medal for?The Twenty-One Balloons?and received two Caldecott Honors for his illustrations for?Bear Party?and?Lion.