“Ba-room, ba-room, ba-room, baripity, baripity, baripity, baripity–Good.”

Jess is in 5th grade and struggling to find his place in life. He has four sisters, a family struggling with tight finances, a very tough-to-please father, enjoys art, and he used to be the fastest runner in school, but that was recently taken away by the new girl in town, Leslie.  While the two seem like they should be at odds, Leslie and Jess soon become friends and bond over both the similarities and the drastic differences in their lives.  Where Leslie is brave and joyful, Jess is afraid and often sad; but, with Leslie’s help, Jess learns to be a little bit braver every day.  One day, the two decide they need a place to call their own safe from school bullies, annoying sisters, and parents, so they cross a small stream into the woods and christen that land Terabithia.  Terabithia is a magical place for Jess and Leslie where their imaginations can soar and their incredible bond can grow unhindered by the stresses of the outside world.  While life outside Terabithia is still crazy, all is perfect when Jess and Leslie play together, but when Leslie falls victim to a terrible accident, Jess’ life is shattered, both in Terabithia and the real world, and he will have to use the lessons Leslie taught him if he’s to have any chance of making it through.

This classic children’s novel that has often been the center of debate is both inspiring and heartbreaking.  The story is a beautifully crafted balance between the fantasy and reality that makes childhood so wonderful.  The inspiration for the 2007 movie, Paterson’s story is shocking, and therefore, completely unforgettable.  Bridge to Terabithia is an intense, moving, and timeless book that will continue to captivate readers for generations to come.