Mia feels alone and so alone that it feels like she lives on a small island, far out to sea. Then one day, Mia is given a book – the first she has ever been able to call her own. As Mia reads her book, bridges appear and her island feels with colour and life. The more Mia reads, the stronger the bridges become, opening up a world of connection and hope…
For me, Tom Percival’s books are always essential, must-have reads, whether we are talking about middle grade (you can find my review of The Wrong Shoes here) or his gorgeously illustrated picture books (my review of The Invisible is here and The River is here!). His ability to teach empathy and hope makes him one of my favourite authors/illustrators and The Bridges was a joy to read. The most poignant love letter to the power of reading, The Bridges shows the importance of libraries and the power of connection through books. My 5 year old and I loved reading this before bed – it gives you the warmest feeling inside and it’s a book you want to give as a first book to inspire future readers. Where will their bridge take them? What about yours?
Suggested reading age: 4+
The Bridges is written and illustrated by Tom Percival. It will be published by Simon & Schuster on 29th August 2024. You can preorder your copy here.
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