Book Review: Bridge to Terabithia

Title: Bridge to Terabithia

Author: Katherine Paterson

Awards Won: Newbery Medal

Recommended Age Span and Why: This book is recommended for children ages 11 to 14 partly due to the writing style, but mainly because of the more mature subject matter of the death of one of the main characters.  

Genre: Realistic Fiction, Novel

Brief Summary: When a new girl moves in next door, Jess is apathetic until he finds himself becoming friends with her and having adventures until a tragic accident occurs.

Evaluation & Use with Children:  This was a very enjoyable read.  A personal favorite part of the book is when the characters create an imaginary kingdom, especially since that kingdom is based on another book.  Hopefully, it encourages children to create their own imaginary lands and adventures.  Moreover, the book deals with the issue of death.  The author handles the topic in such a way as to make it appropriate for children.  The various stages of grieving are also covered through the main character.  Readers who have lost a loved one can empathize with the characters in the book, while those who have not had that experience may have understanding for their peers going through the situation.  The author weaves in a good message about the importance of finding balance between having a healthy fear and living life courageously, which is an especially appropriate message considering the tragic accident that occurs.

There are a few ways that the book could be used when working with children.  The book could be used as a way to discuss death and grieving.  Also, the book could be used with art to inspire children to illustrate their own imaginary kingdoms.  The book could be read along with The Chronicles of Narnia and then activities dealing with comparison could be done with the two books.  Compare and contrast activities could also be done between city life and country life since Jess and Leslie were from these very different places.