“Bowman makes this longer text accessible to a wide range of readers. Gustavson’s gouache and watercolor images transport readers into Blondin’s world…. This well-researched, riveting biography will inspire readers.” —School Library Journal

“The lifelike gouache-and-watercolor illustrations are rich with the drama and tension of Blondin’s performances… Bowman conjures the sheer magnitude of his Niagara endeavor as she describes the calculations, equipment, and manpower needed to simply get Blondin’s rope from one shore to the other. And like the spectators there on June 30, 1859, readers will hold their breath as the Frenchman makes his legendary walk.” —Booklist

“Bowman’s well-researched documentary text re-creates the energy, tactics, skill, engineering, unflinching optimism, and sheer grit of Blondin’s preparations to cross Niagara as well as the skepticism and wonder of all who witnessed his legendary endeavor. Bold, colorful watercolor-and-gouache illustrations capture Blondin’s high-wire escapades… Theatrical lighting, stunning perspectives, and arresting close-ups convey the intensity of Blondin’s feats… Awesome, astounding, death-defying.”—Kirkus Reviews

Best Children’s Books of the Year ―Bank Street College of Education, 2020

Donna Janell Bowman is the author of Step Right Up. She holds an MFA in Writing from Vermont College of Fine Arts. She lives in Texas. You can visit her website here.

Adam Gustavson is the illustrator of more than twenty books for children, as well as numerous periodicals. He holds a master of fine arts degree from the School of Visual Arts in New York, and teaches at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia. He lives in New Jersey. You can visit his website here.

“Lively, engaging… Bowman’s conversational, folksy reader-directed paragraphs incorporate droll, dramatic, and suspenseful touches that will likely hold readers’ interest…Schindler’s intricate, expressive watercolor-and-ink illustrations lend further vibrancy.” ―Booklist

“Bowman’s upbeat telling is infused with folksy humor, and Schindler’s superb watercolor-and-ink illustrations effectively capture the time period.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“Bowman adds levity and appeal… Schindler’s illustrations, done in watercolor and ink, are a perfect accompaniment to this moralistic story.” ―School Library Journal

“This title takes a refreshing look at one of Lincoln’s mistakes. Likely a story not known to many, this selection humanizes a celebrated man and solidifies his position as one of America’s greatest heroes!” ―School Library Connection

Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People ―National Council for the Social Studies, Children’s Book Council, 2019

Writers’ League of Texas Book Awards (Finalist, Picture Books) ―Writers’ League of Texas, 2018

Kansas State Reading Circle Recommended Reading List (Intermediate)―Kansas National Education Association, 2019

Alabama Camellia Award (Nominee, Grades 4-5 Non-fiction) ―Alabama Department of Education, 2019-2020

Delaware Diamonds Award (Nominee, 3-5) ―Diamond State Reading Association, 2019-2020

Donna Janell Bowman is the author of Step Right Up. She holds an MFA in Writing from Vermont College of Fine Arts. She lives in Texas. You can visit her website here.

S.D. Schindler is a popular illustrator of many bestselling children’s picture books, including Ben Franklin’s Big Splash: The Mostly True Story of His First Invention and Brother Hugo and the Bear. He lives in Pennsylvania.