PLOT SUMMARY
At first, 10-year-old Jesse Aarons' new neighbor is nothing but a wrinkle in his plan to become the fastest boy in fifth grade. But soon, Leslie Burke becomes Jesse's best friend, confidante, and reigning queen of Terabithia, a mythical world of their creation. When tragedy suddenly strikes, Jesse learns an unforgettable lesson about friendship, loss, and holding tight to your dreams.
MY IMPRESSIONS
There has been much debate recently about the inaccessibility of some Newbery winners, but Bridge to Terabithia represents everything that is right about the award. The book is a completely relatable, infinitely lovable ode to friendship and loss that appeals to readers of all ages. And there's just no way around the fact that the heartbreaking ending results in a waterfall of big, sloppy book tears (the best kind, some say).
REVIEWS
"Written by the author for her then young son whose best friend was killed by lightning, this Newbery Medal winner moves the heart and spirit with its beautiful writing, wrenching honesty, and hopeful ending."
Valerie O. Patterson, Children's Literature, 2005
Read Patterson's full review at:
http://www.childrenslit.com/childrenslit/mai_paterson_katherine.html
"Not only is the story unusual because it portrays a believable relationship between a boy and a girl at an age when same-sex friendships are the norm but it also presents an unromantic, realistic, and moving reaction to personal tragedy."
Jack Forman, School Library Journal, November 1977, Vol. 24, No. 3
USES IN THE LIBRARY
The book could be the inspiration for a writing contest in which kids craft essays about what qualities make for a great friend. It could even become fodder for a Best Friends Day, in which best friends pair up for activities such as board games, video games, or trivia contests.
CITATION
Paterson, Katherine (1977). Bridge to Terabithia. New York: HarperCollins.
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