The Bridges

By georgieva.iskra / March 1, 2025

Lonely Mia found hope and joy through the transformative power of books.

Mia’s parents often become engrossed in their shopping routines, leaving her feeling overlooked and isolated. Her life changed dramatically when an elderly lady left a book at her door. Mia recognised this book as valuable, especially since she had no books. Each page she turned opened up a world rich with colour, strength, and happiness. She then discovered bridges that led to the public library, where she encountered an abundance of books and, in turn, formed meaningful friendships.

Years later, when Mia came across a lonely little boy, she remembered her own experience and decided to share it with him, passing on the gift of reading that had profoundly impacted her life.

“The Bridges” is designed to inspire young children to explore the incredible world of stories. Books can be powerful tools for comfort and understanding, especially during challenging times when life feels unfair or dull. Tom Percival’s engaging illustrations effectively guide children through the narrative, supporting their learning even before the pre-reading stage. The soft, muted colours, primarily in shades of blue, reflect Mia’s journey while contrasting reds highlight key moments, such as the special book she received. The text is presented in a clear and approachable font, consistent with the other three books published by Simon & Schuster, one of which is “The Invisible.”

This inspiring story not only celebrates the importance of literature but also serves as an excellent introduction to the value of free library services, encouraging children to enrich their lives through reading.

Further Information:

If you loved The Bridges, check out more information about its author and illustrator:

Tom Percival’s website

Further Reading:

The River

The Stats: