|
|
 Bridge to Terabithia |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
Charles: When I started reading Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson, I thought it was going to be just another drippy book about friendship. Well, that's like calling the Grand Canyon a great big ditch or the Statue of Liberty a hunk of copper shaped like a woman posing with a torch. OK—I'm being dramatic. What I mean is, Paterson's book is about a special friendship, but it is also about so much more. The main characters, Jess Aarons and Leslie Burke, are kind and interesting kids who would be fun to get to know. Once you meet them, it is hard not to be affected by their emotional story. The unlikely friendship between Jess and Leslie begins at school after they compete against each other in a school race. They are drawn together as friends because they both feel "different," and they come to respect and support each other's unique talents. Together they create an imaginary kingdom in the woods, called Terabithia. In Terabithia, where Jess is King and Leslie is Queen, they feel strong and free. They talk, share ideas, and have a lot of fun. For the first time, Jess dares to feel good about himself. Terabithia might remind you of a favorite place in your own life—a place where you feel safe and free to be who you are. On one rainy spring day, life in Terabithia changes forever. Suddenly, Jess plunges into one of the most difficult experiences of his life. In order to survive, he is forced to think about the true meaning of Terabithia and his relationship with Leslie. By the end of the novel Jess is still struggling. However, drawing strength from his friendship with Leslie, he gains a little more understanding and a little more hope. Hopefully you will feel this understanding and hope as well. Paterson's novel tackles some tough subjects that might make you feel sad and angry at times, but, don't worry, its ending is warm and encouraging. This is a book many readers never forget! Phoebe: Who isn't grateful for another good travel guide? Bridge to Terabithia is one of the most informative ones I've ever had on my shelf. Don't head to Terabithia without it. Like most guides, it will tell you where to dine, shop for souvenirs, find lodging, and locate public restrooms when you're out and about in Terabithia. Katherine Paterson is brilliant to write a guide to a lesser-known community. I mean, how many more guides to New York, San Francisco, Boston, and Washington D.C. do we need? I would call Paterson a genius if she would continue the series with titles such as Bridge to Belchertown, Bridge to Dewey; or Bridge to Bisbee. We could all benefit from exploring different corners of the country. To say any more about this fine publication would be to take away from it. Read it before you get on that plane to Terabithia. I know I will. |