Balloons Over Broadway

Balloons over Broadway: The True Story of the Puppeteer of Macy's Parade written and illustrated by Melissa Sweet.

Everyone's a New Yorker on Thanksgiving Day, when young and old rise early to see what giant new balloons will fill the skies for Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Who first invented these "upside-down puppets"? Meet Tony Sarg, puppeteer extraordinaire! In brilliant collage illustrations, Caldecott Honor artist Melissa Sweet tells the story of the puppeteer Tony Sarg, capturing his genius, his dedication, his zest for play, and his long-lasting gift to America-the inspired helium balloons that would become the trademark of Macy's Parade.

The collage illustrations coupled with Sweet's storytelling portray Sarg's joy in his childhood inventions and his ingenious balloon creations that still bring delight to viewers around the country. This nonfiction illustrated book will capture the hearts of all ages.

Hardcover, 40 pages. Recommended ages 5 - 8 years, grade levels preschool - 3.

From the exhibition Tony Sarg: Genius at Play on view June 10 through November 5, 2023 at Norman Rockwell Museum.