Bridge to Terabithia

Book review by Amy Finley, Common Sense Media
Bridge to Terabithia Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 9+

Honest, moving story of friendship and loss.

Katherine Paterson Friendship 1977
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Parents say

age 10+

Based on 20 reviews

Kids say

age 9+

Based on 92 reviews

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A Lot or a Little?

The parents' guide to what's in this book.

Stands out for .

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that Bridge to Terabithia, by Katherine Paterson, won the 1978 Newbery Medal. It focuses on the sweet friendship of a tween boy and girl who share imaginative play, creating a world of their own just a rope swing away, far from the school bullies they face. It also features a child's death and grief in the aftermath of the tragedy, and may provoke tears. There's mention of cremation, which may be upsetting to some kids. Some strong language, including "bitch," "damn," and "hell."

Community Reviews

hannahrw1991
hannahrw1991 Adult
February 7, 2020
age 9+
This book focuses on the friendship of a boy and a girl who "share imaginative play," according to an expert review. They create the magical kingdom of Terabithia. The novel also features a child passing away and grief afterwards, which may make some readers start bawling. There's mention of scattering ashes, which may be upsetting for some kids. Strong language is used throughout: "bitch," "damn," and "hell."

This title has:

Educational value
Great messages
Great role models
Too much swearing
MissPiggy
MissPiggy Adult
November 8, 2019
age 9+

Sweet

This book is sweet but heartbreaking. It may give children a negative view of life, due to a beloved character's death, and it has some profanity. It's still a sweet, uplifting book though.

This title has:

Educational value
Great messages
Too much swearing
See all 20 parent reviews

What's the Story?

In BRIDGE TO TERABITHIA, two tween outsiders -- quiet, artistic Jesse and free-spirited Leslie -- become friends and escape from overbearing parents and bullies at school in their own private kingdom of Terabithia. Their idyllic world is shattered by a tragic accident.

Is It Any Good?

Among countless books about friendship and loss, this one stands out. It's notable for the tender care the author lavishes on her main characters, and for the honest portrayal of a child's grief and a child's capacity for creating beauty from tragedy. Jesse's life can be a struggle -- especially with four sisters and a need to hide his passion for drawing. But author Katherine Paterson gives voice to his fears and hopes without imposing judgment or commentary.

Readers will find much common ground with the protagonists. Jesse, though often annoyed by his sisters, tries to be kind, and sympathizes with his overworked mother. Leslie, the only child of wealthy, intellectual parents who sometimes forgets she's a child, knows what it's like to be an outsider. Though the last part of the book deals with death and its aftermath, this is ultimately a richly uplifting story of a boy and a girl who become friends despite their differences.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about so much in this book, from friendship to imagination to loss.

  • How does Terabithia strengthen Jesse and Leslie's friendship?

  • In what ways is their fantasy world similar to their everyday world?

  • Have you ever constructed a fantasy world?

Book Details

Our Editors Recommend

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