Bridge to Terabithia

Rating:
Summary: Bridge to Hope
Review: For my fifth grade class we were all assigned to read Newberry medal books, and we all did so, grudgingly. I had always been an avid reader, so I took the challenge to read the most Newberry books in the class.
Sadly, that fall, one of my classmates and friends, died a terrible car accident. We all kept going, though it was a strange time in all of our lives. That spring, I read Bridge to Terebethia and identified strongly with a particular character. I was devasted when the character died, but oddly enough it helped me work through some of my grief.
I believe every fifth grader that year read the book at one time or another, due to the encouragement of our teacher. It is a profound, moving story and presented in just the right context. There were things that went over my head the first time I read that book, but reading it over I discovered new levels of meaning in the book. The scenes following the death are very poignant and real; but just as important are the seemingly unimportant scenes at the beginning. Patterson presents a vividly real community and families. Though the sisters to Jess could be seen as a bit overstated, they emphasize points in the book remarkably well.
This book did not change me, but it did help me through very difficult changes in my life. I would recomend to anyone who has ever lost someone or to anyone who just wants a remarkably good read.

Rating:
Summary: The Way to Terabithia
Review: I think this book is one of the best books I have ever read for students. I encourage anyone who teaches to definitely read this and incorporate it into their classroom. It is a definite tear-jerker and heart-warmer.

Rating:
Summary: THERE'S NO POINT TO THIS BOOK!!!!!!
Review: I read this book 15 years ago, and I still get teary-eyed when I think about it. This book ranks up with Where the Red Fern Grows. I can't wait until my children are old enough for me to be able to share this wonderful story with them,