The Bridge by Bill Konigsberg dives into the issue of teen depression and suicide, giving readers a perspective into how life can be as a teen struggling with mental health issues. The book is centered around two teenagers, Aaron and Tillie, that are at the George Washington Bridge at the same time, both getting ready to jump. Konigsberg gives readers 4 different perspectives, one where Aaron jumps and Tillie doesn’t, one with Tillie jumping, one with both jumping, and finally one where neither one of them jumps. Each perspective delves into the minds of the teens, their family, and friends, showing the different reactions to either the death or close call. It shows that both Aaron and Tillie have someone in their corner, and they are ultimately not both as alone as they feel. Konigsberg is able to get readers in the mind of a suicidal teen, showing that even a seemingly small and insignificant event could really be the last straw for someone struggling. The Bridge is able to highlight a problem that is often not talked about enough, and relate to readers in many ways with challenges like body shaming, cyberbullying, and sexuality. Overall, The Bridge is able to connect with readers through its touchy and upsetting subject, while also talking about an issue that should be talked about more.
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