3.94
"The Family Under the Bridge" by Natalie Savage Carlson is a heartwarming children's novel that tells the story of a homeless family and the unlikely friendship they form with a grumpy old man. Set in Paris, the book follows the life of Armand, a retired sailor who lives under a bridge and enjoys his solitary life. However, his peaceful existence is turned upside down when he encounters a family of three children and their mother, who have lost their home and are living on the streets. Armand initially wants nothing to do with the family, but as he gets to know them, he finds himself unable to resist their charm and warmth. He soon becomes a surrogate father to the children, taking them on adventures around the city and teaching them about the world. As the story unfolds, Armand learns the true meaning of family and community, and the importance of helping others. Carlson's writing is simple yet evocative, bringing the streets of Paris to life in vivid detail. The characters are well-drawn and relatable, with Armand's transformation from a grumpy old man to a loving father figure at the heart of the story. The book deals with themes of homelessness, poverty, and community in a way that is both accessible and thought-provoking for young readers. "The Family Under the Bridge" is a timeless tale of friendship, family, and the power of community. It is a perfect book for children who are looking for a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, and for adults who want to share a classic children's novel with the young people in their lives. With its timeless themes and engaging characters, "The Family Under the Bridge" is a book that will be cherished by readers of all ages for generations to come...
E.B. White
The Trumpet of the Swan
In both 'The Family Under the Bridge' and 'The Trumpet of the Swan', animals are central to the story. A trumpeter swan is born without a voice and must learn to communicate in other ways, leading to a series of adventures.
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Bridge To Terabithia
Like 'The Family Under the Bridge', this book tells the story of friendship and resilience in the face of adversity. Set in a small rural town, two children create a magical kingdom in the woods, providing them with an escape from their everyday struggles.
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Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry
Similar to 'The Family Under the Bridge', this book explores themes of poverty, racism, and the importance of family. Set in the Jim Crow South, a young African American girl learns to stand up for herself and her family in the face of injustice.
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Because of Winn-Dixie
In both 'The Family Under the Bridge' and 'Because of Winn-Dixie', the main characters find comfort and companionship in unexpected places. A young girl in a small Florida town adopts a stray dog who helps her make new friends and come to terms with her past.
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The Giver
Like 'The Family Under the Bridge', 'The Giver' explores themes of community, family, and the importance of individuality. Set in a dystopian society where memories are erased, a young boy is chosen to receive all the memories of the past.
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The One and Only Ivan
In 'The Family Under the Bridge' and 'The One and Only Ivan', animals play a significant role in the story. A gorilla in a shopping mall zoo longs for freedom and companionship, and forms a bond with a young elephant and a janitor.
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The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane
Both 'The Family Under the Bridge' and 'The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane' feature characters who go on transformative journeys. A china rabbit is lost and must learn the value of love and friendship as he travels across the country.
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The Secret Garden
Like 'The Family Under the Bridge', 'The Secret Garden' explores themes of isolation, family, and the healing power of nature. A young girl is sent to live with her uncle in the English countryside and discovers a hidden garden that changes her life.
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The Cay
Like 'The Family Under the Bridge', 'The Cay' explores themes of survival, resilience, and the power of human connection. A young boy is shipwrecked on a deserted island with an old West Indian man, and the two must learn to rely on each other to survive.
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The Tale of Despereaux
Both 'The Family Under the Bridge' and 'The Tale of Despereaux' feature characters who are outsiders in their communities. A small mouse with big ears dreams of becoming a knight and embarks on a quest to save a princess from a terrible fate.
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Maniac Magee
Like 'The Family Under the Bridge', 'Maniac Magee' explores themes of poverty, racism, and the power of community. A young orphaned boy becomes a legend in a small Pennsylvania town as he navigates the racial divide and helps to bring people together.
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