Review: Climb onto a high tresle bridge over a swirling river, train imminent . . . why?
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 11 21, 2013
What makes a boy climb onto a railroad bridge soaring 280 feet above the Kentucky River, no protective railings on either side, trains imminent every half hour? Youth, a dare, conquering a fear of heights . . . or simply that adrenaline rush that comes with certain danger? And what then, if an unexpected train arrives? Rumbling down the track, sending vibrations skittering up your legs. Are you fast enough? High school freshman Tom has inner demons to vanquish, something to prove to himself. Will he leave the bridge in time? Will he drop to the catwalk below and safety? Hey, I'm not telling. No spoilers here. You have to read "The Trestle" to find out. I did, and I loved the way Ben Woodard "dropped" me right into the middle of Tom's dilemma. A lesson in adventure and conquering your fears for young readers.