The Bridges

The Bridges is an incredibly important book. Mia is a lonely girl, ignored by her busy parents and bored of her grey life. In her imagination she sits on a small rocky island in the middle of a stormy sea but the island is empty and isolated because she doesn't have any imagination to bring it to life. When someone sends her a book, it transforms Mia. Her imaginary island becomes much more lush and verdant and small bridges begin to appear.

These first bridges lead her to the library, where a whole world of new books opens up to her.  Mia's imaginary world expands and becomes sturdier and is now full of other readers for her to share her adventures with.  A few years later she spots a small boy sitting sadly on his small, bare, rocky island and she knows exactly what he needs...

The simple message in The Bridges, that a book can take you anywhere, is brought to life with vibrant, delicate illustrations which the reader will want to dive into.  Mia's world looks very appealing and I'm sure any child would want to join her there for fun and adventure.  The text is simple but elegantly written and is perfectly accessible for readers on many different levels. 

The perfect gift for a reluctant reader and one that should have pride of place in every classroom and library. Get the message out and get this book into children's hands.

Picture book / Reviewed by Wendy Kelly, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 5+