Children's Books = Feature Films #1

Jess Aaron has been practicing all summer to be the fastest runner in fifth grade. All his practice s for nothing as he new girl, Leslie Burke beats him. Jess tries to keep his distance from the girl that dresses and acts funny. Eventually, they become best friends.

Together they create a kingdom called Terabithia that can only be accessed by swinging on an “enchanted” rope over a stream. Jess and Leslie rule Terabithia as king and queen. They imagine creatures and giants which they fight and conquer. One day, Jess is invited by his teacher to visit a museum. He doesn’t ask if Leslie could go. When he returns he finds out that the Leslie had drowned in the creek. The “enchanted” rope had snapped. Jess experiences grief and sorrow as he blames himself for her death. In the end, his little sister had followed him to Terabithia. Jess was building a bridge across the creek as the entrance to the magical kingdom. He allows his little sister to become pat of Terabithia as the new queen of the kingdom.

This is such a great book. I cried at the ending when Leslie died. This book deals with the sensitive subject of death. However, I think it is important for young adults to read this book because of the subject matter. It seems like every year my community deals with the tragedy of the death of a child or teenager. Young adults should read materials that deal with different emotions. The guidance counselor or teacher could then discuss about coping strategies. This would also be a good time for parents to have discussion with their children about such matters.

I have seen the movie and read the book. Both are great. The movie provides a visual of what Terabithia looks like. The book describes Terebithia in great detail, butit doesn't compare with the filmmakers creativity. The film shows how magical the kingdom is by actually showing the kingdom's creatures. However, the book shows how Terabithia had an impact on the characters Jess and Aaron. I read the book prior to viewing the movie and prefer the book over the movie. The author captured the essence of being a youth such as the importance of being the fastest runner in the grade, imagination, and being treated because you are different. Students (and adults) will enjoy reading this book and watching the movie.