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“The Bridges” - Tom Percival

Language of book for review:

English - “The Bridges”

Published also in:

European Portuguese - “As Pontes”

English on Amazon

Portuguese on Wook

"The Bridges" by Tom Percival is a visually enchanting and emotionally resonant picture book that celebrates the transformative power of reading. Aimed at children aged 4–8, the story follows Mia, a lonely girl who feels isolated on her metaphorical island, until a book—the first she can call her own—arrives, sparking bridges to new worlds, connections, and hope. Percival’s narrative is a heartfelt ode to literature, emphasizing how books can combat loneliness and foster community, culminating in Mia’s act of sharing her book with another lonely child. While the message is uplifting, its simplicity might occasionally risk underplaying the complexity of real-world isolation, requiring adult guidance to bridge the metaphor to lived experiences.

Percival’s illustrations, also his own, are a triumph, transitioning from a monochrome palette to vibrant, whimsical scenes as Mia’s world expands, with bridges stretching into magical landscapes and libraries. The art captures the joy of discovery, though its idyllic portrayal of reading as a universal cure might feel overly optimistic to some, potentially overlooking systemic barriers to literacy. Nonetheless, the book excels as a conversation starter about the emotional and social benefits of reading, making it a valuable addition to classrooms and home libraries, especially for reluctant readers. "The Bridges" is a beautiful, if slightly idealized, testament to the idea that a book can take you anywhere, blending accessibility with a touch of magic.