Episode 295 – Bridge to Terabithia
Summary
Hosts Renata and Kate welcome guest Teresa Okokon to discuss Katherine Paterson’s *Bridge to Terabithia* during their Flashback Summer series. They explore the book’s emotional impact, its basis in Paterson’s real-life loss, and themes of childhood masculinity and poverty. The conversation also critiques dated elements like fat-shaming while celebrating the story’s enduring power and the deep friendship between Jesse and Leslie.
Topics discussed
Introduction and guest Teresa Okokon
Author background and real-life inspiration
Jesse's family, chores, and meeting Leslie
The running races and school dynamics
Creating Terabithia and Christmas gifts
Church, baptism fears, and the DC trip
Leslie's death and Jesse's grief
Afterword, legacy, and personal connections
Dramatic readings from the book
Readers advisory and book recommendations
Rock Paper Snicked game segment
Listener mail and closing thoughts
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