BRIDGE TO TERABITHIA, by Katherine Paterson
AR Level: 4.6 Points: 5
Interest Level: Elementary/Middle Grades
Vocabulary Quiz Available
Literacy Skills Quiz Available

Eleven year old Jess Aarons’ father is always busy and never seems to have time for him. Jess thinks that if he can become the fastest runner in the fifth grade, his father might be proud of him. But during the first race of the year, a new girl, Leslie Burke beats not only Jess, but every other boy in the race. Even with that rocky start, Leslie and Jess become fast friends. Leslie is bold and adventurous, which is a nice balance for Jess’s shy nature. They build a secret fantasyland across the creek where they are the reigning king and queen. Tragedy strikes, and the story takes a very different turn when Leslie dies suddenly. This is a heartbreaking story of true friendship—lived and lost—and held onto only in memories.

Teachers: This book is recommended for more mature readers