Book Title: Bridge to Terabithia
Author(s) and Artist(s)--if applicable: Katherine Paterson.
Illustrated by Donna Diamond
Publisher: HarperTrophy
Copyright Date: 1977
Selection Choice: #2 (Newbery award winner.)
Brief Annotation: Jess Aarons’ greatest ambition is to be
the fastest runner in the fifth grade. He’s been practicing all summer and can’t
wait to see his classmates; faces when he beats them all. But on the first day
of school, a new girl outruns everyone.
For some reason, Jess and the new girl, Leslie Burke, become
inseparable. Together, she and Jess
create Terabithia, a magical kingdom in the woods where the only way to enter
is by swinging across a dry creek bed on the end of a rope. There, the two reign as king and queen and
their imaginations set the only limits. Then one morning a terrible tragedy
occurs. Only when Jess is able to come
to grips with this tragedy does he finally understand the strength and courage
Leslie has given him.
Your rating: 5 out of
5. This book is enchanting, heart-breaking and soulful. Both young readers and old alike should enjoy
this remarkable coming-of-age novel.
Readers who will like this book: Readers who love
imaginative kingdoms, strong yet unlikely friendships and daring adventure
should enjoy this book.
Question to ask about this book before reading: What characteristics
do you look for in a good friend?
Question to ask about this book while reading: Why do you think Jess and Leslie make such
good friends? Find two passages from the book to support your answer.
Question to ask about this book after reading : In your
opinion, do you think Jess should feel guilty for leaving Leslie alone the day
she died? Give three reasons to support your opinion.
Interest level: grades 4-7
Grade Level: 6.1
Awards: A Newbery Honor book, 1977.
Another excellent selection choice--you're developing a strong familiarity with some classic books for upper elementary-aged kids. Have you read Walk Two Moons? I think of that book as among other titles you've read, including The Midwife's Apprentice and Winn Dixie. If you're looking for another good read, I highly recommend it.
ReplyDeleteYou've written compelling questions to guide readers' thinking about this book. I'm glad you went back to the idea of the unusual friendship between Jess and Leslie, asking readers to consider what brought them together, and to "prove" their thinking w/ passages from the book.
I think you're all set with reading requirements now, eh? If you do read anything else, though, please feel free to blog about it so we can all benefit from your insights.