Cloudland - Softcover

Something terrible has happened! While hiking in the mountains with his parents, Albert trips and falls off a cliff. Luckily, the children who live in the clouds are able to say some magic words (was it "Gargle giggle fiddle num dee" or "Teetum waggle bari se nee"?) that make Albert light enough for them to catch. Soon he and the cloud children are having a grand old time painting pictures with colors from the rainbow, playing jumping games in the clouds, and skinny-dipping through the rainy sky. Albert is delighted with his wonderful new skyscape and playmates... and yet one day he begins to feel the pangs of homesickness. With Cloudland, award-winning author and illustrator John Burningham creates one of his most unusual and imaginative tales. Stunning collages use enhanced photos and colored drawings, providing more than just a backdrop to this charming story. Readers young and old will lose themselves in the mesmerizing depth of the illustrations. If Burningham's head, like Albert's, is always in the clouds, that's exactly where he should stay. (Ages 4 to 8) --Emilie Coulter

One of the finest and most original writers at work today."--The New Yorker

"It's hardly a new theme: a child finds himself in a new world where each day offers yet another fantastic experience. Eventually, however, the child yearns for the familiarity of home. In the hands of the incomparable Burningham, this familiar story takes on new depth and poignancy while never losing the giddy appeal of adventure. Astunning book...It promises to resonate with readers of all ages."--Publishers Weekly (starred review)