I read Bridge to Terabithia with my almost 9 year old foster son for a book report.

He struggled with it for a while (the dialogue, mostly, plus he thought it was boring at first), but about 2/3 of the way through he really began to love it.

I think this book is great for a young reader -- maybe a bit older than mine, though -- because the messages of overcoming fear, gaining the courage to stand up for yourself, and love and loss are important.

Overall, we both liked Bridge to Terabithia. I loved it more than him because I am of an age that can appreciate it for what it is. It's definitely a book I'd recommend for young readers.