SYNOPSIS

To avoid loneliness and isolation at home, Jess decides to become the fastest runner at school and spends all summer training on his own.

A new student and Jess’s new neighbor, Leslie, wins the all-boys’ races at recess and is quickly ostracized by her classmates.

After witnessing her isolation, Jess befriends Leslie and they soon become inseparable.

Leslie’s playful magical world in the woods, Terabithia, inspires Jess’s own creativity and joyfulness.

A teacher encourages Jess’ love of drawing and takes him on a visit to a Washington, D.C. art museum.

On this same day, Leslie visits Terabithia alone, has an accident and is found dead.

Shocked and deeply grieving, Jess builds a bridge to prevent accidents like Leslie’s and introduces his younger sister to Terabithia.

PERFECT AGE 11 – 14

We love

• Not an easy book to get over, and one you’ll want to read again and again.
• A reminder of the deep, lasting impact we all can have on each other.

CONVERSATION STARTERS

• What are some of Leslie’s qualities that make Jess fond of her? How is she different from him?
• What makes Terabithia fun for both of them? What is exciting about secret and magical places?
• Why did Jess not invite Leslie to the trip with Miss Edmunds?
• How did Jess’s family show their support for him when Leslie died? How are they different from Leslie’s parents?
• Why might have Jess decided to show Terabithia to May Belle?