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Best Katherine Paterson Books

December 2024

Lyddie

Lyddie’s world crumbles when her father abandons the family farm, leaving her to fend for herself in 1840s Vermont. Determined to reunite her scattered siblings, she takes a grueling job at a textile mill. Amid the deafening looms and choking cotton dust, Lyddie discovers an unexpected passion for reading and a fierce desire for independence. Her journey from illiterate farm girl to educated young woman is a testament to the human spirit’s resilience. Paterson’s vivid prose brings to life the harsh realities of child labor and the stirrings of workers’ rights in early industrial America.

The Great Gilly Hopkins

Gilly Hopkins is a tough-as-nails 11-year-old foster kid who’s been shuffled from home to home. When she lands with the Trotters, she’s determined to be her usual troublesome self. But Maime Trotter’s unwavering kindness slowly chips away at Gilly’s defenses. As she begins to open up, Gilly faces a choice: embrace this newfound family or cling to her dream of reuniting with her birth mother. Paterson’s poignant tale explores the complexities of belonging and the true meaning of home.

Jacob Have I Loved

Sara Louise Bradshaw’s life on a tiny Chesapeake Bay island is overshadowed by her twin sister Caroline’s beauty and talent. As she grapples with jealousy and self-doubt, Louise finds solace in the island’s rhythms and her crabbing skiff. Paterson’s poignant coming-of-age tale explores the complexities of sibling rivalry, first love, and finding one’s place in the world. Through Louise’s eyes, we experience the bittersweet journey of growing up and learning to love oneself.

Bridge to Terabithia

“Bridge to Terabithia” by Katherine Paterson is a poignant tale of friendship and imagination. Jess Aarons, a fifth-grader with dreams of being the fastest runner, finds an unexpected ally in Leslie Burke, the new girl in school. Together, they create Terabithia, a magical kingdom in the woods where they reign as king and queen. This heartfelt story explores themes of loss, courage, and the transformative power of friendship. I remember reading it as a child and feeling deeply moved by its emotional depth and the bond between Jess and Leslie.