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This is a story about a boy named Jess and his friend Leslie.  Together they build a tree house but pretend it's a kingdom.  Read this story to find out about the tragedy that is important to Jess and its important lesson - one that has the power to change his life. 

The book has a lot adventure, such as the time when Jess and Leslie have a running race in school.  This book also has a lot of sadness. I suggest you find your tissue box before you read this book.

Summer 2002

Jesse Aarons is an average 10-year-old boy whose only wish is to be the fastest runner in the 5th grade.  When the time comes to go back to school, Jess is bursting with excitement like a grasshopper in a tin can. The first running race is about to begin at recess when he discovers the new girl, Leslie Burke. She beats every single person in the race and leaves everyone in complete shock. Jess becomes angry that a girl beats him on his first big race!

This incredible, charismatic girl, Leslie, convinces Jess to befriend her, even though no one likes her, and they develop a beautiful friendship. They create their own imaginary kingdom called Terabithia and crown each other king and queen of this amazing land, located in the forest by Leslie's house. Leslie astounds Jess with her vast knowledge of magical stories and Jess loves hearing them, so she tells them to him in their beloved stronghold of Terabithia.

But something terrible happens one day and leaves Jess heartbroken. What happens next? Read this book to find out.

I absolutely devoured this book simply because its theme is so realistic and I can relate to some of the feelings the characters have.  I would recommend this book to people who have coped with tragedy and who enjoy reading about kids who aren't unrealistic, like some authors make them to be.

I also understand that the author based Bridge To Terabithia on a real life experience. I like that because then the author has a much better understanding of what she is writing about and, therefore, I have a better understanding of what I am reading. I wouldn't change a thing about this book and I hope Ms. Paterson continues to write more excellent books!

Spring 2002

Fall 2000

I read Bridge to Terabithia. This book is about a boy and a girl whose names are Jesse and Leslie. They wanted a place just for them. They wanted it to be a secret that no one knew about, not even their parents. It was Leslie’s idea to create Terabithia, their secret kingdom in the woods, where they reigned as King and Queen. Jesse’s friendship with Leslie and the worlds of imagination haunt him as Leslie dies from the swing that they use to cross the creek to get to their secret land, Terabithia. Jesse doesn’t believe it, but it’s sad and true.

Fall 2000