Full of hot air
by Gary Paulsen
Delacorte Press 1993
Great fit for 6th grade
Reading level and content both target 6th grade and up · ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- adventure
- risk-taking
- perseverance
- ingenuity
- nature and weather
- self-reliance
- technology and flight
- humor
About this book
Gary Paulsen recounts his real-life adventures learning to pilot hot-air balloons, from finicky burners and tricky landings to breathtaking views above forests and fields. Told with Paulsen’s trademark humor and honesty, the book offers a behind-the-scenes look at the craft, the weather, and the quirky community of balloonists. Readers who enjoy true, high-interest adventure stories will be drawn to the close calls, problem-solving, and fast pacing. A great pick for older middle-graders and teens who like nonfiction that feels as exciting as fiction.
Setting: hot-air balloon flights across the United States, including rural fields, small towns, and balloon festivals
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Full of hot air right for my child?
Yes — Full of hot air is a great fit for 6th grade. The reading level is AR 6.1, which is typical for 6th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 11+ (6th grade and up). Themes include adventure, risk-taking, perseverance.
How long does it take to read Full of hot air?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, Full of hot air takes around 3.4h to finish. The book has 36,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Full of hot air have an AR quiz?
Yes — Full of hot air has an AR quiz available, worth 5 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is Full of hot air?
Full of hot air has an AR reading level of 6.1, which places it at a 6th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.