One day when I was in second or third grade, my teacher read a book aloud. Sitting at my desk, I rested my chin on my crossed arms intently focused on what she was saying.

 

Books and reading weren’t new to me. I had dozens of Little Golden Books (remember The Poky Little Puppy, Scuffy the Tugboat, The Timid Little Kitten?). But this was a monumental day.

 

It was the first time I was vividly aware of my own imagination. While my teacher read, my mind created the scenes of the story. And even though today I don’t recall what my mind’s eye saw that day, I do remember feeling wonder and awe by being able to imagine.

 

The new movie Bridge to Terabithia brought back this fond childhood memory. Based on the award-winning children’s novel by Katherine Paterson, the film demonstrates the adventure of imagination and the tremendous gift of friendship. (In doing some research I found that back in its day, the book was somewhat controversial. But the film didn’t leave me concerned.)

 

Jess Aarons (Josh Hutcherson, Zathura) is the only son in a family with--count them--four daughters. He has a lot of responsibilities, and his father is pretty tough on him. Jess stays to himself, drawing for hours on end.

 

Leslie Burke (AnnaSophia Robb, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory) is new in town and Jess’ classmate and neighbor. She is a quirky girl with a vivid imagination. The two get off to a somewhat rough start as friends, but soon they are inseparable.

 

Leslie begins to imagine a secret kingdom. Soon Jess is able to see it too, and they create the world of Terabithia, accessible only by riding a rope swing across a creek. In their kingdom the two are mighty warriors able to fight off enemies—imaginary creatures based on their real-life bullies. The courage they develop in Terabithia helps them overcome problems in their everyday lives.

 

Just a warning for you and your kids: The story is a little sad. Eventually, though, people begin to feel peace again and find new friendship and support from those they least expect to give it. Bridge to Terabithia is entertaining above all else, but some situations will open the door for parent-child conversation.

 

The fantastic world and its characters remind me of The Chronicles of Narnia and an extremely tame Lord of the Rings. The plot might be a bit out of reach for very young children, but the special-effects characters aren’t frightening. 

 

Bridge to Terabithia has it all: fantasy, humor, friendship, sorrow, restoration and hope.