SOLVED. YA book - I think of Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium but that is not correct. It is based in this fantastical competition with challenges in a circus/zoo challenge. Similar plot to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. [s]

[Riley]

I believe the main character was a male and they competed in teams. There may have been a hot air balloon in an inside garden on the cover.

I read this book in elementary school, so about 10-12+ years ago.

[bookel]

A look at recommendations for Charlie and the chocolate factory on LibraryThing listed The Gollywhopper Games.

[Riley]

bookel wrote: "A look at recommendations for Charlie and the chocolate factory on LibraryThing listed The Gollywhopper Games."

This one is it!! Thanks so much!

[Kris]

Glad you found your book, Riley.

"The Gollywhopper Games" series by Jody Feldman - https://www.goodreads.com/series/1306...