Common Sense Media Review
Honest, moving story of friendship and loss.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 9+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 15 parent reviews
Parents say that the book is beautifully written and addresses significant themes such as friendship, bullying, and grief, making it resonate with older children and tweens, though some find the language and content inappropriate for younger readers. While many appreciate its emotional depth and life lessons, caution is advised due to the inclusion of distressing topics and profanity.
- emotional depth
- friendship themes
- language issues
- suitable for older kids
- caution advised
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 75 kid reviews
Kids say that the book is a poignant story that touches on themes of friendship, imagination, and coping with loss; however, many reviews note the presence of inappropriate language and a sad ending, making it potentially unsuitable for younger readers. While some appreciate its emotional depth and relatable characters, others criticize the use of swear words and the portrayal of death, suggesting it may be better suited for more mature children.
- friendship themes
- emotional depth
- language concerns
- sad ending
- maturity required
Summarized with AI
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
- Author :
- Illustrator : Donna Diamond
- Genre : Friendship
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : HarperTrophy
- Publication date : January 1, 1977
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 9 - 12
- Number of pages : 176
- Award : Newbery Medal and Honors
- Last updated : February 13, 2026
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate