The 21 Balloons

It is unlikely that du Bois meant to suggest that large societies like the United States should have a form of “Gourmet Government.” What point was he likely making, then, by creating a story where people do have this form of government? What does the history of Krakatoa in the novel suggest about human nature and human societies?

Teaching Suggestion: Although du Bois’s novel is meant to be an amusing story for children, it also makes some serious points about human nature and how people can work together to create better societies. This prompt asks students to think about the serious messages underneath the novel’s comedy. After students have answered this initial prompt, they might discuss whether they agree with du Bois’s vision of humanity. What evidence from history, contemporary events, and their own lives might support or refute his ideas about people and societies?

Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

“Sherman’s Explorer’s Journal”

In this activity, students will demonstrate their understanding of setting and characterization in The Twenty-One Balloons by creating an explorer’s journal entry for each of Sherman’s days on Krakatoa.