Jesse Aarons
| Jesse Oliver Aarons, Jr. | |
|---|---|
| File:JesseAarons.jpeg Jesse Aarons (Josh Hutcherson) in the 2007 film. | |
| First appearance | Chapter 1: Jesse Oliver Aarons, Jr. |
| Last appearance | Chapter 13: Building The Bridge |
| Created by | Katherine Paterson |
| Portrayed by |
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| In-universe information | |
| Alias | King of Terabithia |
| Nickname | Jess |
| Gender | Male |
| Title | "King" |
| Occupation | Student / Husband / Guardian |
| Family |
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Jesse Oliver Aarons, Jr. is a fictional character in the book Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson, who based him on her son. Jesse is an artistic boy who is fearful of doing courageous things. Jesse was extremely depressed before Leslie Burke, with whom he jointly created the fictional kingdom of Terabithia, comes into his life. He is a very good runner and only lost to Leslie in the school race. But through Terabithia, Leslie gave him courage.
Afterwards, he finds out his only and best friend, Leslie, perished trying to enter Terabithia alone when he went to an art museum in Washington with his teacher, whom he had a crush on. When he accepts Leslie's death, he lets go of his frustration. Jesse soon realizes Leslie has made him strong and courageous through Terabithia. After making peace with Leslie's death he makes his younger sister, May Belle, the new queen (in the film version, a princess) since the queen, Leslie, had passed away.
1977 book
It comes to being Christmas time, and Jesse gets Leslie a puppy. Leslie gives Jesse his present: an art set. Jesse is shocked but loves the present.
Jesse has an unspoken infatuation with his music teacher, Miss Edmunds, which is the reason why Jesse doesn't invite Leslie to the museum with him and Miss Edmunds.
2007 film
After hearing that Jesse loves drawing, Leslie gives him an art set for his birthday. He says, "This looks expensive..." In return, Leslie tells him, "Well, I can take it back and get a cheaper one if you want." Later, to show his appreciation, Jesse gives Leslie a dog she names "Prince Terrien, Troll Hunter Extraordinaire".
Like the book, the film revolves around the dramatic focus of Jesse's relationship with Leslie Burke (played by AnnaSophia Robb) and his crush on Miss Edmunds (played by Zooey Deschanel). Leslie's secret crush for Jesse is hinted at in several scenes, such as her reaction to the gift of Prince Terrien by hugging him. He also starts feeling the same way when he is mesmerized by her the last time he was with her.