Bridge to Terabithia

Paterson, K. (1972). Bridge to terabithia. NY:Crown.

Jess is a fifth grader that wants the spotlight and a chance to stand out by being the fastest runner. In his efforts to do just that, he quickly comes to meet Leslie, a new girl, who dares to race all the boys and beats them all. They develop a fast friendship by creating a fantasy in the woods of Terabithia. There they conquer their imaginary beasts that represent their insecurities and fears and play in a land where they rule. They teach each other valuable lessons and Jess grows the confidence to continue to develop his artistic abilities as Leslie teaches him all about literature, creativity, and imagination. They continue their fantasy in Terabithia and at school always fighting off intruders. One rainy day, Leslie stays behind in Terabithia, while Jess goes on an art gallery trip with Miss Edmunds, that he thoroughly enjoys.Upon his return, he finds Leslie tragically drowned in the creek. Jess is torn and downcast and decides to build a bridge in their beloved Terabithia and crown his sister as queen in honor of his beautiful friend, Leslie. This is a beautiful story of friendship that proves that 2 is better than one. It proves to all that you can be whatever you want to be without fear of rejection and the beauty of friendship. A powerful theme and lesson to be learned by students of middle grades.