Jess
What is Jess's favorite physical activity?
Running
How does Leslie’s appearance differ from the other kids in the school?
Leslie often wears clothes that are different from what the other kids wear, and her style reflects her individuality and nonconformity. This difference makes her an outsider at first, and she faces some teasing from other students.
Who is Jess's father, and what is his job?
Jess's father is a farmer
How do Jess and Leslie get to Terabithia?
They cross a rope swing over a creek to reach Terabithia.
At the end of chapter 3 who does Jess sit next to on the bus?
May Belle
Describe Jess’s first impressions of Leslie Burke when she first arrives at the school.
Jess initially finds Leslie strange and different from other kids at school. Her unconventional behavior and confidence make him uncomfortable.
How many siblings does Jess have, and can you name them?
Jess has four siblings: his older sister May Belle, his younger sisters Brenda and Joyce Ann, and his younger brother.
Why is Terabithia important to Jess and Leslie?
It’s a place where they can be themselves, have fun, and be free from their everyday problems. It’s their own special world.
What do Jess and Leslie do together that helps them become friends?
Jess and Leslie become friends by spending time together and creating Terabithia, their magical place (kingdom)
What do we learn about Leslie’s family and how does it contrast with Jess Aarons’ family?
Leslie comes from a wealthy, artistic family that values creativity and freedom. Her parents are writers who encourage her imagination. In contrast, Jess’s family is more traditional and struggling financially, more constrained, with a focus on practical matters.
What is Jess's relationship with his sister May Belle?
Jess's relationship with May Belle is a mix of irritation and affection. He often finds her annoying but still cares for her deeply.
What do you think Jess learns from his experiences in Terabithia?
Jess learns about bravery, friendship, and the importance of being open to new ideas and experiences.
How does Jess’s drawings reflect what he is feeling inside?
Jess’s drawings show his feelings and imagination. They help him express what he is thinking and feeling, especially when he finds it hard to talk about his emotions.
How does Leslie handle other students' reactions to her appearance and personality?
Leslie handles their reactions with confidence and doesn’t let their opinions bother her (stays true to herself)
Why is Jess’s family important to the story?
Jess’s family is important because they help us understand his background and the challenges he faces. His family dynamics also influence his feelings and actions throughout the story.
What do Jess and Leslie do to make Terabithia their special place?
Jess and Leslie make Terabithia their special place by creating their own rules, having adventures, and imagining it as their kingdom. They also build a throne and imagine themselves as royalty.
What does Jess learn about himself through his friendship with Leslie?
Jess learns that he is more creative and capable than he thought. He discovers new things about himself, becomes more confident, and starts to value his own imagination and abilities.
What common interests do Leslie and Jess discover, and how do these shared interests help to build their friendship?
Leslie and Jess discover a mutual love for fantasy and imagination, which leads them to create the magical kingdom of Terabithia together. Their shared interest in storytelling and adventure helps build a strong bond between them.
How does Jess’s family affect his ability to pursue his interests, like running and drawing?
Jess's family, especially their financial situation and the responsibilities he has at home, often make it difficult for him to pursue his interests as much as he would like.
What do you think the setting of Terabithia represents for Jess and Leslie?
For Jess and Leslie, Terabithia represents their friendship, creativity, and the escape from the challenges they face in their daily lives. It’s a place where they can dream and be free together.