Under the Bridge

by Ellen Kindt McKenzie

When Ritchie's younger sister Rosie gets very sick after their mother suddenly goes away, Rosie begins to receive letters from a lonely troll, and these letters help Ritchie cope with his mother's absence, his father's seeming indifference, and the fifth-grade class bully.In the 1940s American Midwest, Ritchie is coping after his mother suddenly goes away, and his little sister Rosie becomes sick, when a strange letter from a lonely troll comes for Rosie that changes both their lives

Genres: Childrens, Fantasy

140 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1994

About the author

Ms. McKenzie is a retired writer who wrote part time between the 60's and 90's, her writing subscribes to her philosophy that writing for children should not be dumbed down or held to a low standard, but rather held to the same level of respectability as adult literature. She is also a concert pianist and loves mythology and history.

Reviews

[Jane]

This is a great story of how an adult who isn't a family member or even a significant part of a child's life can become significant and make a difference. What's amazing is that no one in the story is judged--not really the cold father, the insensitive teacher, the bully...it's told in the child's voice, as he sees things unfold. Probably a better read for adults than for children but a fabulous reminder of the role of caring and of imagination in helping others heal.

[Caf-Fiend Jitters]

love this book too. its great to have a book that is worth reading with your children. its hard to find a story that is rich with life. my children and i enjoyed reading this book. thanks great aunt mckenzie. keep writing!!

[Don Gubler]

Rather clever and winning tale.