Bridge to Terabithia

Paterson, K. (1977). Bridge to Terabithia. New York, New York: Harper Collins. Fifth grade can be tough. Jesse Aarons is determined to be the fastest boy in the fifth grade. He has been practicing early in the mornings in the field by his home where he tends to his cow and focusing on his pace. That is until Leslie Burke moves in next door and decides to run with the boys during recess one day. She beat every boy! Once the two become close friends, they create their own secret kingdom. This kingdom is deep in the woods and they named it Terabithia. Paterson provides a story of true friendship, friends who have created their imaginary society with in the woods new their home. Illustrations on limited and spread out through the book. The illustrations are simplistic in colors and lines, sketching what is depicted to  give a brief image of the characters. Tragedy within the book hits home when Leslie dies by accidentally drowning by the creek to their kingdom, Terabithia. Paterson presents tragedy, sympathy, imagination, and the meaning of true friendship. Lesson pertaining to inferencing, theme, mood, and character traits and qualities can be presented to older readers. Students cab write a eulogy for Leslie and present from Jesse's point of view, provide and  illustration of their favorite event with in the book or majestic forest, Terabithia. Attached is the Disney movie trailer of the book for your viewing pleasure. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3SvqEIKP4t8