Author Katherine Paterson
First published 1977
Publisher Thomas Y. Crowell Co, USA
A novel about friendship, loss and the power of the imagination.
Story
Jess knows he is the fastest runner in school until new girl Leslie arrives. The two become friends and together invent a magical fantasy land called Terabithia in woods behind Leslie’s house. Their friendship grows stronger until one day Leslie goes to Terabithia alone.
Why we chose it
A story about friendship and the power of the imagination – and about dealing with tragedy and loss.
Where it came from
The author, Katherine Paterson, is said to have written Bridge to Terabithia to help her son deal with the grief of suddenly losing a close friend. Paterson was also a teacher of children around the age of the characters Jess and Leslie.
Where it went next
Bridge to Terabithia went on to win the Newbery Medal in 1978. The story has been adapted into a film twice; in 1985 directed by Eric Hill and, in 2007 by Gabor Csupo.
Associated stories
Katherine Paterson has written many novels, pictures books, and works of non-fiction. Fans of Bridge to Terabithia also enjoy Jacob Have I Loved (1980), The Great Gilly Hopkins (1978), and The Master Puppeteer (1975).
Author Katherine Paterson
First published 1977
Publisher Thomas Y. Crowell Co, USA