In US government schools, a select few decide curriculum for large groups of young people. In 1988, my fourth grade classmates and I were required to read this book (no choice; I personally did not think to ask "why" at the time). My only memories (these past years) of my experience was watching the film and crying uncontrollably about the outcome. (It is unlikely that I finished reading the book on my own, as I usually took paths of least resistance when conscripted, K-12.) I lack a complete understanding of how this experience contributed to shaping me, given complexity of my development in the culture within which I lived. Without justifying my suspicions with references to my educational background and work experiences therein, I will simply itemize what I consider intuitively derived thoughts: 1) My strong emotional reaction including devastating surprise probably warned me of terrible outcomes for me in the future. 2) My reaction likely helped me understand that others might react similarly to me, thus aiding in (over?)development of the concern for others, and an interest in their perspectives, sometimes known as "empathy". 3) I have developed two relationships with females since viewing this movie in 1988, where I have felt (based on memory) similar panic or separation anxiety like reactions when departing from these friends. I never considered these two as sexually interesting, instead exclusively as buddies (and we had tons of fun!). When I had to leave in either situation, I always cried and felt depressed. So, I read the book again this month, January 2011. I cried profusely and felt very angry about killing off the wonderful character, Leslie. I am going to rewrite the end for myself because I don't care to be constantly reminded of the devastation surrounding death...I've been inundated with it, and for the remainder of my experience, will likely be outrageously angry enough -- just from my understanding of the treatment of several million Europeans in the 1930 - 1945s, and the portrayal of an excellent dad in Life Is Beautiful. I hope I can somewhat match the great style and story telling of the author, Katherine Paterson, as I rewrite the novel of two heroes living happily, forever ;)Read full review
I love everything about this book and highly recommend to everyone. In summary this book tells us a lesson that our society needs today, TOLERANCE. Mrs. Paterson did an excellent job in writing this book. Children of all ages should read this book, I believe that it is not too early to educate a child about the injustices and intolerance that our society tends to do because of some individual differences. In Psychology, Individual differences is a natural thing but that doesn't seem to apply in the sometimes cruel society. IT IS NEVER AN EXCUSE FOR A CHILD TO BULLY SOMEONE - Good manners and a respectful attitude starts at home. I highly recommend this book to anyone, Kid's and adults alike. KUDOS to Mrs. Paterson.
It has been a pleasure to read this book. I bought it as a reading project for my son, and I started reading it and now am interested in finishing it.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
a good read for a youngster
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I absolutly LOVED Bridge to Teribithia. My teacher read it to me, and it was so sad, that I cried. The book was also inspiring. My best Friend, Reeti and me created Our own version of Teribithia, the magical kingdom .
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