Bridge to Terabithia

Paterson, K. ( 1977). Bridge to Terabithia. New York, NY: Harper Trophy.

Set in rural Virginia, Jess Aaron is beginning fifth grade and his biggest ambition is to be the fastest runner in his grade.  But his plans change when a new girl, Leslie Burke, moves to town and she outruns every boy in the recess races.  Jess and Leslie soon become best friends and create a magical land across a creek in the woods, which they name Terabithia.  They rule over their land as king and queen and imagine all sorts of adventures.  Leslie teaches Jess that its ok for a boy to like art, enjoy music, and be friends with a girl.  Then tragedy hits one day, and Leslie drowns in the creek.  Jess must face the death of his best friend and how she changed his life forever.

This book explorers the magic of friendship, breaks stereotypical gender roles, and exposes children to death. It is a story where children must confront the death of a friend, an area many children may have never experience before.   It also explores how boys and girls can be friends. The main character, Jess, learns that its ok  for boys to enjoy art and that girls can be athletes.  This Newberry Medal winner is well written and highly recommended for children ages 9-12.