Bridge to Terabithia, by Katherine Paterson

Reviewed by Alyssum Ackers, 12, Hopewell, NJ

Bridge To Terabithia is a great story for a person who loves emotional fiction stories. Katherine Paterson, the author, is terrific at her job. This novel, in particular, is one of her best. Since the main character, Jesse, is in fourth grade, a fourth-grader, or possibly anyone, would love this book.

Jesse loves to run; he had to be the fastest and best runner at Lark Creek Elem. School in Virginia, but when he was challenged by a girl, Leslie Burke, that changed everything! Leslie and her parents were new to this community, and she was thought to be odd by some people. Leslie and Jesse soon became best friends; their relationship was a strong one. Then, Leslie gets a great idea to create Terabithia, a secret place in the woods only for themselves. Then something terrible happens! Jesse feels like he lost a huge and major part of himself, but I'll leave it up to you to see what happens.

This book is a great book to read as a class, or for personal reading. I suggest you read this however you like, but definitely read it; it is a major MUST because it is a wonderful, touching story.

"Alyssum Ackers is 12 years old and attends Timberlane Junior School. She likes to go to her beach-house every summer on Long Beach Island, and she enjoys writing and being with her friends."

Teacher: Pat Coats

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