Local Bookseller Turns Macy’s Balloon Handler

In a tradition that dates back 85 years, and draws the attention of millions, Macy’s Annual Thanksgiving Day Parade took place down the streets of Manhattan last week.  It’s New York City’s official kick-off to the holiday season. 

The parade, famous for its giant balloons, unique floats, marching bands from across the nation, clowns and celebrities, has been a Thanksgiving tradition since a group of Macy’s employees launched the concept in 1924. 

And with a crowd of three million on hand, and 50 million via television, Naperville’s Becky Anderson took the role of balloon handler.  Anderson, an owner of in Naperville and Downers Grove, is current president of the American Booksellers Association.  She helped wrangle the Diary of a Wimpy Kid balloon, taken from a children’s book series by the author, Jeff  Kinney.

“There was more to this job than I ever imagined,” Anderson confesses.  Balloon handlers have to follow the lead of directors marching with them called pilots, watching their hard signals and whistles to keep the balloons flying in position.  “It was so cool to walk down the middle of streets that  you have only seen from the sidewalk and look up behind you see this huge shape floating down Central Park, 42^nd Street, Columbus Circle and 34^th  Street.  Literally millions of people watching, kids yelling for the Wimpy Kid- ‘I love that book!’” 

This incredible opportunity came from the Wimpy Kid book publisher, Abram’s Books.  Anderson was invited to help with the Abram’s team, a group that also included the author, Kinney.  “All of this joy over the love of these books,” says Anderson, “and a character named Greg Heffley.”  (Greg Heffley is the focus of the Wimpy Kidsseries.) 

Anderson is no stranger to parades.  Anderson’s Bookshops are frequently represented in local parades in Naperville and Downers Grove.  Anderson, herself, has donned character costumes on many occasions.  She has played the part of Curious George, and Clifford the Big Red Dog.  “So give me a parade, and make it about children’s books!” Anderson says.