2004 Caldecott Award Book

Gerstein, M. (2003). The man who walked between the towers. Brookfield, CT: Roaring Book Press.



This book was a tribute to the Twin Towers in New York City, on September 11; as well as, a tribute to Philippe Petit. The story takes places during the construction of the Twin Towers. Happily, Philippe Petit danced, walked, and juggled with great agility on a rope only seven-eights of an inch thick, stretching from building to building. One day, as he stretched the rope high in the air imagining what was going to be his challenge, the magnificent Twin Towers came into view. With the assistance of three loyal friends ,Philippe set his plan into action. The four worked diligently through the night, awaiting the dawn light to begin his amazing feat for all to see. High above the ground among the birds, Philippe is at peace. Finally, coming down awaiting his punishment, Philippe was arrested and sentenced to perform in the park for children. A punishment fitting for Philippe Petit.



The first thing that attracted me to the book was the title. An image of someone walking high above the ground, on a rope, also peaked my interest and sparked my curiosity about The Man Who Walked Between the Towers. In previewing the book, the extra long pages added to the appeal of the story and mimicked the rope that spanned from tower to tower. Simple and clear language, accompanied ink paintings, allowed the reader to focus on the story line.



Unfortunately, I have not read any other book by Mordicai Gerstein. However, I have read other books illustrated by Gerstein. The Principal's on the Roof, written by Elizabeth Levy. The book's illustration mirrored that of The Man Who Walked Between the Towers. The story was comical with humrous, light-hearted illusrtations.



This book supported the idea that book with a historical edge do not have to be boring. The Man Who Walked Between the Towers is captivating and adventurous in nature. This book would be perfect for readers searching for adventurous story.