The Bridge Home by Padma Venkatraman tells the story of Viji and Rukku, two sisters who escape their abusive father and find themselves in a seaside Indian city, where they form a makeshift family with two homeless boys, Arul and Muthu. The children navigate hunger, danger, and societal prejudice while grappling with questions of faith, future, and family. The narrative addresses physical abuse, poverty, illness, and childhood death.

Padma Venkatraman's novel, The Bridge Home, has garnered praise for its poignant narrative, well-developed characters, and vivid depiction of street life in India. Reviewers commend its emotional depth and powerful themes of resilience and friendship. However, some critics note that the heavy subject matter may be distressing for younger readers. Overall, it remains a compelling and heart-wrenching read.

Readers who would enjoy The Bridge Home by Padma Venkatraman are typically middle-grade audiences who appreciate heartfelt, character-driven stories about resilience and camaraderie. Fans of Wonder by R.J. Palacio and Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan will find the novel's exploration of adversity and friendship compelling.

Emotional / Challenging / Hopeful / Bittersweet / Heartwarming

- The Bridge Home has won multiple prestigious awards, including the Walter Dean Myers Award and the Golden Kite Award for Middle Grade Fiction.
- The novel draws inspiration from real-life experiences shared by children that author Padma Venkatraman met during her visits to India.

**Viji**  
An 11-year-old girl who is bright, cautious, and protective, dreaming of becoming a teacher while making sacrifices to care for her sister.

**Rukku**  
Viji’s older sister, who has an intellectual disability and demonstrates underestimated abilities as she forms bonds with those around her.

**Arul**  
A physically and morally strong ragpicker of Viji’s age, who exhibits leadership qualities and a firm commitment to providing for his chosen family.

**Muthu**  
The youngest of the children, who adds comic relief and offers insightful commentary, drawing from his distrust of adults and institutions.

**Celina Aunty**  
A perceptive and supportive figure who provides guidance and a welcoming environment without imposing her beliefs on others.

Padma Venkatraman

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Novel

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Study Guide

Teaching Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-6 

The Bridge Home Chapters 1-6  Summary & Analysis

Chapters 7-12 

The Bridge Home Chapters 7-12  Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-20

The Bridge Home Chapters 13-20 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 21-33

The Bridge Home Chapters 21-33 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 34-Author’s Note

The Bridge Home Chapter 34-Author’s Note Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Bridge Home Character Analysis

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Themes

The Bridge Home Themes

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The Bridge Home Symbols & Motifs

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The Bridge Home Literary Devices

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Introduction

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Before Reading

The Bridge Home Before Reading

During Reading

The Bridge Home During Reading

After Reading

The Bridge Home After Reading

The Bridge Home

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