Blast Off to Balloonia! A fun-filled graphic novel adventure for young readers. Graphic novels are fast becoming a favourite amongst young readers, bridging the gap between picture books and chapter books with their dynamic storytelling and eye-catching illustrations. One of the latest must-reads in this growing genre is Blue, Barry & Pancakes by Dan Abdo and Jason Patterson, a delightful new series perfect for children aged 5-8. Packed with humour, adventure, and heartfelt messages about friendship, this series is a brilliant way to introduce young minds to the joys of comic-style storytelling.
Escape to a World Made of Balloons
The second instalment in the series, Escape from Balloonia, takes readers on a wildly imaginative journey with three unlikely but inseparable friends:
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Blue, a gentle bookworm with a love for knowledge
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Barry, a clever inventor with a knack for problem-solving
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Pancakes, an endlessly energetic bunny who creates chaos and adventure in equal measure
In this latest adventure, the trio find themselves in Balloonia, a whimsical planet entirely made of balloons – every tree, every house, even the air itself is inflatable! But their fun soon turns into a challenge when they come face-to-face with Balloon Kong, a larger-than-life ape with a towering presence. With a balloon rocket, their combined wits, and a whole lot of teamwork, Blue, Barry, and Pancakes must navigate this bizarre new world while learning what it truly means to support one another.
More Than Just Laughs: A Story About Friendship
At first glance, Escape from Balloonia is a fast-paced and zany read, but beneath the surface, it carries an important message about the value of patience, empathy, and teamwork. Despite their wildly different personalities, Blue, Barry, and Pancakes show that understanding and compromise are key to maintaining strong friendships – an essential lesson for young readers as they begin to navigate relationships of their own.
The book’s humour and vibrant illustrations keep the storytelling engaging, making it a fantastic pick for children who are just starting to read independently, as well as for older kids who still enjoy a fun, visual story.
Meet the Creators Behind the Magic
Dan Abdo and Jason Patterson are no strangers to storytelling. With a background in directing award-winning commercials, creating hit cartoon shows, and even selling a feature-film concept, they bring a wealth of experience to the world of children’s books. The duo are also the creative minds behind the bestselling graphic novel series Barb. True to the themes of their books, Abdo and Patterson do everything as a team – writing, drawing, and creating their stories together.
When and Where to Get It
If your child loves action-packed adventures with a touch of silliness, Blue, Barry & Pancakes is a perfect addition to their bookshelf. The first book in the series, Beach Ball Bedlam, is already available, while Escape from Balloonia is set to launch on 3rd April 2025 – with more books on the way!
Whether your little one is a budding comic book fan or just starting to explore the world of independent reading, this series is bound to be a hit. After all, who wouldn’t want to escape to a world made entirely of balloons?
