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Bracken Trilogy #1
The Bridge
Princess Rosalynn is pretty, spoiled, and childish. She gives no thought to the men and women that protect her father's throne. Then one day, invaders from the enormous kingdom across the river storm across the Bridge and conquer the royal castle. Alone and in danger, Rosalynn sets out on foot to find her father. Some of her own subjects, she discovers, are willing to sell her to the enemy for reward. Driven by fear, she finds the Bridge and crosses it. In the enemy kingdom, she meets an unexpected friend--a woman who has discovered a secret way to save Rosalynn's kingdom. Together Rosalynn and the wise woman face enemy soldiers, wicked outlaws, and the wilds of the river on their quest to save her tiny kingdom. Their goal is the Bridge itself, and the secret that it holds.
116 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1986
7 people are currently reading
794 people want to read
About the author
Jeri Massi
94 books95 followersJeri Massi is the author of the Peabody Adventures series and the Bracken Trilogy and others. Her YA novel VALKYRIES, published by Moody Press, was nominated for the Christy Award.
She is now an Indy author, writing Christian SF/Fantasy, comedy, mystery, and adventure.
You can track her booklist, adventures with cancer, and articles on Children's/YA literature at her substack:
https://jerimassi.substack.com
She is now an Indy author, writing Christian SF/Fantasy, comedy, mystery, and adventure.
You can track her booklist, adventures with cancer, and articles on Children's/YA literature at her substack:
https://jerimassi.substack.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
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May 29, 2023I've been in a dreadful reading slump all year, so I'm revisiting some old favourites in an attempt to reboot my interest in the pastime. Jeri Massi's BRACKEN trilogy was a fantasy staple of my childhood. When I wrote my very first story it was a rather thinly veiled copy of this one, and I thought it would be fascinating to revisit the books as an adult.
THE BRIDGE is the shortest and slightest of the trilogy, following a fugitive princess after her kingdom is invaded as she attempts to escape the enemies trying to capture her. When Rosalynn joins forces with an ageless wise woman, they get a chance to save the whole kingdom.
This time around I find part of the book's theme slightly troubling. 10yo Rosalynn is depicted as a prideful and spoilt girl for questioning her adult friends, and her character arc has to do with her learning unquestioning obedience in some ways that I'm not sure I would consider appropriate for a child of my own (although I am not a parent and it might hit different if I was).
That said, even in this shortest and slightest of the trilogy, I found much that was impressive. The story owes clear debts to the children's fantasies of CS Lewis and George MacDonald, in the best possible ways. Although the trilogy has always been published by Christian publishers and there is a very, very faint thread of allegory/symbolism, I was pleased by how subtle and artistic the Christian themes were. Finally, although this is a children's book, the real protagonist is without a doubt the wise woman whom the princess meets on her travels. It is she who saves the day using her knowledge and wisdom when all the king's horses and all the king's men cannot. As child reading this book I was entirely wrapped up in Rosalynn's adventures, but as an adult the appeal of the book lies in seeing a solo female character of indeterminate age Gandalfing her way through this fantasy about princesses for little girls. It's like THE PRINCESS AND THE GOBLIN if you could actually imagine BEING the grandmother and stomping down out of the tower to fix everything. Which, of course, I thoroughly enjoyed.
THE BRIDGE is the shortest and slightest of the trilogy, following a fugitive princess after her kingdom is invaded as she attempts to escape the enemies trying to capture her. When Rosalynn joins forces with an ageless wise woman, they get a chance to save the whole kingdom.
This time around I find part of the book's theme slightly troubling. 10yo Rosalynn is depicted as a prideful and spoilt girl for questioning her adult friends, and her character arc has to do with her learning unquestioning obedience in some ways that I'm not sure I would consider appropriate for a child of my own (although I am not a parent and it might hit different if I was).
That said, even in this shortest and slightest of the trilogy, I found much that was impressive. The story owes clear debts to the children's fantasies of CS Lewis and George MacDonald, in the best possible ways. Although the trilogy has always been published by Christian publishers and there is a very, very faint thread of allegory/symbolism, I was pleased by how subtle and artistic the Christian themes were. Finally, although this is a children's book, the real protagonist is without a doubt the wise woman whom the princess meets on her travels. It is she who saves the day using her knowledge and wisdom when all the king's horses and all the king's men cannot. As child reading this book I was entirely wrapped up in Rosalynn's adventures, but as an adult the appeal of the book lies in seeing a solo female character of indeterminate age Gandalfing her way through this fantasy about princesses for little girls. It's like THE PRINCESS AND THE GOBLIN if you could actually imagine BEING the grandmother and stomping down out of the tower to fix everything. Which, of course, I thoroughly enjoyed.
July 12, 2018
It’s the best feeling when you’ve finished a book your friends have lavished with praise and it lives up and even exceeds the fanfare. Mary and Allison, I’ve finally read The Bridge!
It was a completely delightful read. Simple but with a charm that makes it a powerful and impactful story. This is the perfect example of a quality book I wouldn’t hesitate to share with young kids. Why? Because it’s masterfully crafted and so rich in lessons, lessons that any parent would strive to instill in their kids.
I’m definitely reading more by this authoress and will be joining the ranks of loyal fangirls, sharing her works with my friends and family.
It was a completely delightful read. Simple but with a charm that makes it a powerful and impactful story. This is the perfect example of a quality book I wouldn’t hesitate to share with young kids. Why? Because it’s masterfully crafted and so rich in lessons, lessons that any parent would strive to instill in their kids.
I’m definitely reading more by this authoress and will be joining the ranks of loyal fangirls, sharing her works with my friends and family.
October 2, 2025
2025 reread:
I love it when a childhood favorite still stands up to re-reading. I did catch a bit of harshness in the portrayal of how forgiveness works on this read through... Very brief moment in the book, but enough that I'd want to talk it through with younger readers. Otherwise, exactly the sort of book Eustace Scrubb would have been better for having read!
Original review:
I loved this book as a child. I have to admit, that if I read it for the first time now it might only be 'pretty good', but even without the nostalgia it's a good story. Herron helped shape my ideas of what being heroic and chivalrous looked like, and Roselynn learns to handle adventures very well by the end.
I would say this book is safe for even the youngest readers. There is one kiss on the cheek, but it's not really meant to be romantic. There's some danger and some sad parts, but any bad or unwise decisions made by the characters are gently corrected by the end of the story, and the book holds up both grand and everyday heroism as as a good thing.
I love it when a childhood favorite still stands up to re-reading. I did catch a bit of harshness in the portrayal of how forgiveness works on this read through... Very brief moment in the book, but enough that I'd want to talk it through with younger readers. Otherwise, exactly the sort of book Eustace Scrubb would have been better for having read!
Original review:
I loved this book as a child. I have to admit, that if I read it for the first time now it might only be 'pretty good', but even without the nostalgia it's a good story. Herron helped shape my ideas of what being heroic and chivalrous looked like, and Roselynn learns to handle adventures very well by the end.
I would say this book is safe for even the youngest readers. There is one kiss on the cheek, but it's not really meant to be romantic. There's some danger and some sad parts, but any bad or unwise decisions made by the characters are gently corrected by the end of the story, and the book holds up both grand and everyday heroism as as a good thing.
August 19, 2018
This book was really good!! It did not disappoint! (Thanks for the reccomendation, Mary!!!! I'm so glad I bought this!)
I liked this book because (1) the main character's name is Rosalynn and (2) it's medieval! It's a very exciting read with some intense scenes.
I loved the characters - they were very likeable. Reynald was one of my favourites and Herron is pretty nice too!
Rosalynn had a very upity attitude, but I'm glad she settles down a little bit at the end! She's only ten! :D
Anyway, great read! Reccomended for any ages, particularly middle-grade readers.
I liked this book because (1) the main character's name is Rosalynn and (2) it's medieval! It's a very exciting read with some intense scenes.
I loved the characters - they were very likeable. Reynald was one of my favourites and Herron is pretty nice too!
Rosalynn had a very upity attitude, but I'm glad she settles down a little bit at the end! She's only ten! :D
Anyway, great read! Reccomended for any ages, particularly middle-grade readers.
March 14, 2017
My sister first read me this book when I was three, so it's not an exaggeration when I say I grew up with the book. I'm guessing that I've read it at least ten times, and I wouldn't be surprised at all if I've read it more than that.
This was the first time I've read the book in several years though, and I was actually amazed that there were sentences, paragraphs, and even one chapter that I hadn't specifically remembered. I was delighted over and over again at how the author weaves the story into place and draws us into the world she created.
I don't know how to explain this except to say that the Bracken Trilogy is so woven into my childhood that I hardly know where one ends and the other begins. Every time I had to go outside to get something I would act like I was Rosalynn riding Herron's horse, Javelin. Rosewyn and I had so much in common that I was reminded of her quite often. And, I spent hours in the woods climbing along hills and creek banks acting like I was Krea from "The Two Collars."
While reading this book I not only saw Princess Rosalynn escaping, but I also saw dozens of my own memories of different times during my childhood where I had pretend to be Princess Rosalynn, or else where I'd read bits of her story.
This is truly a delightful book.
This was the first time I've read the book in several years though, and I was actually amazed that there were sentences, paragraphs, and even one chapter that I hadn't specifically remembered. I was delighted over and over again at how the author weaves the story into place and draws us into the world she created.
I don't know how to explain this except to say that the Bracken Trilogy is so woven into my childhood that I hardly know where one ends and the other begins. Every time I had to go outside to get something I would act like I was Rosalynn riding Herron's horse, Javelin. Rosewyn and I had so much in common that I was reminded of her quite often. And, I spent hours in the woods climbing along hills and creek banks acting like I was Krea from "The Two Collars."
While reading this book I not only saw Princess Rosalynn escaping, but I also saw dozens of my own memories of different times during my childhood where I had pretend to be Princess Rosalynn, or else where I'd read bits of her story.
This is truly a delightful book.
November 9, 2022
This book was very good, berry, berry good.
I only have ONE problem with this book, ONE problem people, and that is that it is TOO short!!!!! I need MOOOREE!!!!! I literally read this book in like an hour, that's IT. I need to be able to savor AMAZING books like this, because I do not reread books.
Allthough I acknowledge that there are sequels to this book I assume that it doesn't talk as much about Rosalynn (because it's about her child) and I just love her character! And I know I WILL miss her!
But don't get me wrong this was an incredible book, and if you haven't read it already please do! It is sweet and has plenty of beautiful little bits of wisdom tucked away.
I only have ONE problem with this book, ONE problem people, and that is that it is TOO short!!!!! I need MOOOREE!!!!! I literally read this book in like an hour, that's IT. I need to be able to savor AMAZING books like this, because I do not reread books.
Allthough I acknowledge that there are sequels to this book I assume that it doesn't talk as much about Rosalynn (because it's about her child) and I just love her character! And I know I WILL miss her!
But don't get me wrong this was an incredible book, and if you haven't read it already please do! It is sweet and has plenty of beautiful little bits of wisdom tucked away.
September 19, 2015
My early teenage years were largely defined by this book, and it influences me still. My sister was similarly affected, and when I was a cabin leader at summer camp, I would read it to my girls before bed, and they all fell in love with it, too.
The language is straightforward and not flowery, but at the same time, it has literary class and uses some higher-level medieval vocabulary. The characters are simultaneously strong and nurturing, courageous and obedient. The plot is exciting - an entire kingdom is at stake - yet it has a cozy, intimate feel as the narrative focuses on the Princess Rosalynn, her relationships, and the development of her character. It both encouraged me as a young woman and challenged me to grow.
Plus, there's Herron the Rider. :-D
Make your girls read this book slowly, a chapter at a time, or better yet, read it out loud to them a little each day, so that it has time to work its way into their bones. By all means, make your boys read it, too, but please don't let your girls miss out on this one.
The language is straightforward and not flowery, but at the same time, it has literary class and uses some higher-level medieval vocabulary. The characters are simultaneously strong and nurturing, courageous and obedient. The plot is exciting - an entire kingdom is at stake - yet it has a cozy, intimate feel as the narrative focuses on the Princess Rosalynn, her relationships, and the development of her character. It both encouraged me as a young woman and challenged me to grow.
Plus, there's Herron the Rider. :-D
Make your girls read this book slowly, a chapter at a time, or better yet, read it out loud to them a little each day, so that it has time to work its way into their bones. By all means, make your boys read it, too, but please don't let your girls miss out on this one.
June 21, 2008
This series has to be one of my all-time favorite children's series. Maybe it's because of my love of kings, kingdoms, and princesses, maybe it's the idea of secret identities, but whatever the reason, these books captured my imagination from the day I first read it over 10 years ago, and I am still held captive by them to this day. These books sit within easy reach on my bookshelf to allow for multiple (and frequent) re-readings.
July 12, 2017
My mother read The Bridge to me when I was a young boy. It stuck with me, largely because it is simply a tale of good and evil, with clearly virtuous characters. The ascetic, complete with nighttime escapes on horseback, hidden hideaways in the woods, and the thrilling chases all remind me of the delight of story and how important it is for adults as much as children.
February 5, 2014
The Bracken trilogy feel like fantasy novellas, but apart from taking place in a fictional country, they don't really belong in the genre. More like medieval adventure stories.
January 1, 2026
Remembered enjoying this as a kid. A fun little read.
August 20, 2020
Little did I know when I started this that it was the beginning of a trilogy. The story seemed pretty sewed up at the end so I guess we’ll see where it goes.
In my opinion, The Bridge is a decent little story with good emotion. It has a fairly common plot and the characters (except Rosalynn) didn’t have a huge amount of character development but I’m willing to excuse that because the story takes place in such a short time frame that it might’ve been awkward to try to smush it in. The story’s focus is Rosalynn anyway. I also thoroughly enjoyed the writing style.
Overall, this story isn’t groundbreaking by any means, but it’s not a bad story. I’m interested to see where it goes.
In my opinion, The Bridge is a decent little story with good emotion. It has a fairly common plot and the characters (except Rosalynn) didn’t have a huge amount of character development but I’m willing to excuse that because the story takes place in such a short time frame that it might’ve been awkward to try to smush it in. The story’s focus is Rosalynn anyway. I also thoroughly enjoyed the writing style.
Overall, this story isn’t groundbreaking by any means, but it’s not a bad story. I’m interested to see where it goes.
July 28, 2021
I read this book as part of our homeschooling curriculum in middle school and LOVED it. I ended up picking up the next two books in the trilogy and enjoyed them as well.
Still enjoy it 20 years or so later. ;-) Medieval settings, gallant knights and battles of good vs. evil. And just a hint of romance (just enough to make a girl have a crush on a knight). Fun read!
Still enjoy it 20 years or so later. ;-) Medieval settings, gallant knights and battles of good vs. evil. And just a hint of romance (just enough to make a girl have a crush on a knight). Fun read!
June 23, 2024
It's always a delight when the stories you loved as a child still capture your heart as an adult. This was one of my favorite books and series as a girl, and rereading it as an adult didn't disappoint the little girl I was and still am.
August 19, 2025
We grew up with the second and third books in this trilogy, but this was my first time reading the first one. I adored it, as much as I loved the other books. These types of books are long lost treasures, and I wish more books these days were written in a similar manner/content.
August 25, 2019
We read this book aloud as a family!! It was such a great read aloud and we all loved it!!
We are reading the second one now!!
We are reading the second one now!!
June 7, 2020
Jeri Massi is one of my favorite authors! Her stories are engaging, exciting & make you think about how loving God applies to our lives. Highly recommend these for juvenile readers and adults!
October 18, 2021
Kinda wierd at the end because Rosalynn marries Herron and she is like ten and he is like what 30? and he waits for her to get ''older''.So now shes like 20 and he is 40? So ya kinda wierd to me
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 29, 2023
Very enjoyable, quick read.
August 4, 2024
I remember really liking this series as a child, but it wasn’t quite as exciting as I remembered. 🥲
April 18, 2025
It was great to read this again! The story is well written.
January 3, 2026
Could just be a lot of nostalgia here, but I love this for young adults. Strong heroine with room to grow.
August 26, 2020
I purchased this book and received it in swift time. Had it in my wish list for years. As a child, it was this series that introduced me to historical, medieval, light fantasy, and clinched my love for children's books written by Jeri Massi.
I love this story! Have loved it for the past 30+ years!
I was in tears as I read this first book in the series, today as I dealt with a pulled out back, because it was as if I came face to face with my 10/12 year old self. My old self and grown self rejoiced, sorrowed, adventured on, victored- together! So rewarding, and pleasing to be back with this old friend.
To see me as I have grown, in light of these words, both touched and moved me as I realized how much of my life values, aside from the Bible, have drawn from this book's MANY virtue-laden lessons. Lessons on the significance of perseverance, faithfulness, true friendship, the true value of a person/ girl/ woman, true humility and dignity, encouraging ourselves in the midst of challenges and trials, respecting one another, caring for others as we care for ourselves, the value of wisdom- SO so so many things. This book, this series, shall forever remain one of my favorites. This book, in particular, has and had a very special place in my heart
Fantastic coming-of-age story, with light violence, much adventure, and heroism through and through... unique plot and twists- though simple, very effective, I think. Would be a fantastic book to read aloud!
I love this story! Have loved it for the past 30+ years!
I was in tears as I read this first book in the series, today as I dealt with a pulled out back, because it was as if I came face to face with my 10/12 year old self. My old self and grown self rejoiced, sorrowed, adventured on, victored- together! So rewarding, and pleasing to be back with this old friend.
To see me as I have grown, in light of these words, both touched and moved me as I realized how much of my life values, aside from the Bible, have drawn from this book's MANY virtue-laden lessons. Lessons on the significance of perseverance, faithfulness, true friendship, the true value of a person/ girl/ woman, true humility and dignity, encouraging ourselves in the midst of challenges and trials, respecting one another, caring for others as we care for ourselves, the value of wisdom- SO so so many things. This book, this series, shall forever remain one of my favorites. This book, in particular, has and had a very special place in my heart
Fantastic coming-of-age story, with light violence, much adventure, and heroism through and through... unique plot and twists- though simple, very effective, I think. Would be a fantastic book to read aloud!
April 13, 2016
It's hard to rate this book because it was read to me as a child, and I loved it then. I read it again a few years later and liked it less. Now, looking back on what I remember, I wanted to rate it a one or a two, but I realize my world view clouds my opinion. This is written by a Christian author, and although it is not classed as Christian fiction, I personally think the metaphors are heavy and, quite frankly, a little scary. I wouldn't necessarily recommend it. However, this is my adult perspective. I did love it as a kid (who had a completely different world view to the one I have now.) Use your judgement.
November 9, 2011
I thought The Bridge was alright. I think the best part was whenever Princess Rosalynn was being taken care of by the Wise Woman. I like it in books when everything is alright and homey. I also think it is pretty exciting when the war is going on or something exciting is happening. One time I was reading a good book and something excting is happennig and I bit my tounge because it was so exciting. The next morning it was pretty sore. Haha.
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February 12, 2015I read (and reread!) The Bridge as a homeschooled child in the 80s and 90s. It was part of our Christian curriculum materials. I had no idea The Bridge was the first in a trilogy until now, February 2015. How exciting! I know we still have our copy around here somewhere. I should find it and read it again, then acquire the other two books.
May 9, 2016
A good read for my 5th graders, but the story wasn't as compelling as some of them wished. I found the vocabulary difficult (especially since English is their second language), and the characters just seemed blah. I guess that's to be expected for a young reader novel that's just around 100 pages though.
May 4, 2011
It was awesome, I loved it so much. I like Princess Rosalynn and Herron and the king and the wise woman who saved Rosalynn. I like when Herron and Rosalynn get married and also the wise woman and king get married too. The wise woman was her step-mother, very kind.
April 7, 2008
this book was great! It is one that kids and adults can enjoy. The plot is is fantastic as is the story itself.
February 16, 2011
This trilogy was my favorite to read growing up, even as a teenager. I don't remember how many times I have re-read these three books.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews