Académique Documents
Professionnel Documents
Culture Documents
Dr. Burke
ENGL 414A
October 2, 2015
LSW: Bridge to Terebithia
Discussion Questions and Explanation of Importance
1. Why is it so important that Leslie and Jess come to understand the
reason behind Janices bullying habits?
-Throughout the book, Jess, Leslie, and many other characters deal with
the bullying from Janice Avery. She is depicted as a giant who
threatened peace in Jess and Leslies everyday life and in their life in
Terebithia. However, later on in the book it is revealed that she is
severely beaten by her father. Even worse, one of Janices friends
starts a rumor about it to the whole school. Janice is embarrassed and
hurt that her so-called friend would do such a thing. This revelation of
the two main characters is very crucial. First it shows that all people,
despite their outward flaws, are really just human deep down. Janice
was dealing with a major issue in her life, and this is very relatable to a
lot of children. Second, it teaches the children that they can overcome
their challenges, or giants in life with care and compassion. Not
everything needs to be overcome in a violent way. This is revealing one
of the greatest parts of the books theme, and that is humanity.
Furthermore, it helps us to understand all of the characters a little