Paterson, K., Diamond, D., & Hill, A. (1977). Bridge to Terabithia. New York, NY: T.Y. Crowell
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Genre: Fiction.
Grade Level: 4th-8th.
Summary: Bridge to Terabithia tells the story of a fourth grade boy named Jess who is unable to fit in at home and at school. Jess has four sisters, and never seems to be appreciated by his parent. Jess has a passion and talent for art but is criticized by his father for this. Even at school teachers scold him for doodling, except Miss Edmunds the music teacher. It is apparent throughout the beginning of the book that Jess has low self-esteem and it is surprising when he steps out of his comfort zone and befriends the new girl Leslie. Together they escape into the woods behind their homes and create the magical world of Terabithia. As Jess spends time with Leslie he is introduced to the world in different perspective. For example, Leslie’s family is well off and money while Jess’ family struggles. However, Leslie points out that there is more to life than just things. Another thing that Leslie helps Jess realize when she begins spending more time with her father, is that sometimes parents need to be understood as well. Even though at first it seems as though Jess is the only one learning from Leslie, we see Leslie admire his handyman skills and see Jess take Leslie to church; their friendship is so sincere and beautiful. Towards the end of the story Jess is surprised by Miss Edmund when she invites him to an art Gallery but happily accepts. Jess has a wonderful time but when he comes back he is shocked to hear that Leslie is dead. It seemed that she had drowned in the creek when the rope broke as she was swinging across it. Jess is filled with grief but at the end decides to honor her by living his life fully.
- Setting: Lark Creek & Terabithia
- Theme: Friendship & Gender roles
- Point of View: Third person
- Characters: Jess, May Belle, Brenda, Ellie, Mr. & Mrs. Aarons, Leslie, Janice, Miss Edmunds
Lesson Sketch:
- Lesson Objective: Students will be able to identify and provide examples for at least 3 different themes in the book.
- Questions:
- 1. In groups of two compare and contrast Jess’ character at the beginning of the story and at the end. How was Leslie influential in his life?
- 2. Jess and Leslie are best friends of the opposite sex, describe how their characters defy gender stereotypes placed upon them by society. Would you react the same way the other characters did to how Jess and Leslie acted?
- Lesson Activity: Students will be able write a 5 paragraph paper about someone who has been influential in their life. Or pitch another writing topic based on the themes discussed in class.
- Resources:
Before reading the book, I was unsure if I would like it. I had seen the movie before and didn’t really understand it. But what they say about books being better than the movie is absolutely true! There are so many themes in this book and I feel in the right setting, such as a socratic seminar, students could really benefit and acquire more perspective on different subjects such the one that stood out to me, gender roles. I am currently enrolled in a human sexuality class and are learning about how people are accustomed to only acknowledging the gender you were given but there are also transgender people and people who identify with both. It is interesting to see how far we have come. And see the movement where people are pushing to stop using gender as a form of insult.
fosterthesunflower 