“It was Leslie who had taken him from the cow pasture into Terabithia and turned him into a king.”
Chapter 1: Jesse Oliver Aarons, Jr.
Jesse Aarons, an artistic and introverted fifth-grader, trains all summer to become the fastest runner in his rural school. He lives with his financially struggling family and often feels overshadowed by his sisters. His passion for drawing is his only escape from daily hardships.
Chapter 2: Leslie Burke
A new girl, Leslie Burke, moves next door and shocks Jesse by outrunning all the boys at school. Despite initial resentment, Jesse warms to her unconventional personality. Leslie comes from a wealthy, intellectual family but is kind and imaginative, unlike the other kids.
Chapter 3: The Fastest Kid in the Fifth Grade
Leslie wins the school race, earning Jesse’s reluctant admiration. They bond over shared loneliness and creativity. Leslie’s lack of TV and love for books fascinates Jesse, who begins to see the world differently through her perspective.
Chapter 4: Rulers of Terabithia
Jesse and Leslie create an imaginary kingdom, Terabithia, in the woods near their homes. Using a rope swing to cross a creek, they declare themselves rulers of this magical realm, where they confront bullies and fears through fantasy adventures.
Chapter 5: The Giant Killers
In Terabithia, Jesse and Leslie face “giants” (their real-life struggles) with courage. Jesse’s music teacher, Miss Edmunds, encourages his artistic talent, giving him confidence. Meanwhile, Leslie gifts Jesse paints, deepening their friendship.
Chapter 6: The Coming of Prince Terrien
The two adopt a stray dog, Prince Terrien, as Terabithia’s royal guardian. Jesse’s younger sister, May Belle, admires their secret world but is excluded. Jesse struggles with guilt over leaving her out but treasures his bond with Leslie.
Chapter 7: The Golden Room
Leslie’s parents renovate their home, creating a warm, artistic space that contrasts with Jesse’s cramped house. Jesse feels both envy and awe at their lifestyle. Leslie’s generosity and imagination continue to inspire him.
Chapter 8: Easter
Jesse invites Leslie to church for Easter, where she is moved by the music and story of Jesus. Later, she questions the Bible’s logic, making Jesse uneasy but curious. Their friendship grows despite differing beliefs.
Chapter 9: The Evil Spell
Rain floods Terabithia, forcing Jesse and Leslie to avoid their kingdom. Jesse is invited by Miss Edmunds to an art museum, leaving Leslie behind. Upon returning, he learns Leslie died trying to swing into Terabithia alone when the rope broke.
Chapter 10: The Perfect Day
Jesse is devastated by Leslie’s death, cycling through denial, anger, and grief. His parents console him, but he struggles to accept the loss of his best friend.
Chapter 11: No!
Jesse lashes out in pain, refusing to believe Leslie is gone. He visits Terabithia alone, unable to process her absence. His family’s attempts to comfort him feel inadequate.
Chapter 12: Stranded
Jesse returns to the creek, facing his fear and grief. He builds a bridge to Terabithia, symbolizing acceptance. He invites May Belle into the kingdom, passing on Leslie’s legacy of imagination and resilience.
Key Ideas
- The transformative power of friendship and imagination.
- Childhood grief and coping with loss.
- Escaping reality through creativity.
- Class and family dynamics in rural life.
- Overcoming fear and self-doubt.
Notable Adaptations
| Year | Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1985 | TV Movie | Made for PBS, starring Annette O’Toole. |
| 2007 | Feature Film | Disney adaptation, directed by Gábor Csupó. |
Who should read this book?
- Young readers exploring themes of friendship and loss.
- Adults reflecting on childhood resilience.
- Fans of imaginative, emotionally rich stories.