“Charlotte’s Web”, by E. B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams

 

184 pages, Harper & Brothers, ISBN-13: 978-0545001889

I cannot for the life of me remember which Charlotte’s Web I encountered first: the book in Mrs. Roberts’ 4^th Grade class at Einstein Elementary or the cartoon adaptation by Hanna-Barbera. Anyway…Charlotte’s Web is, of course, a modern-day classic of children’s literature by E. B. White, a writer as well as a contributing editor to The New Yorker magazine. Everyone in class loved the book (I think), even me, a certified arachnophobe; if a guy who squishes spiders on sight can like a book in which a spider is the heroine then you know we are dealing with a writer of rare skill, indeed. So then, on with the review…

While getting ready for school one day, Fern Arable discovers that her father has set out to kill the runt of a new litter of piglets. Fern is determined that he should live and reasons with her father to spare the little pig, and he allows it on condition that Fern take care of it herself so it can grow strong (her father also hopes that Fern will learn how much work it is to take care of something so small). Fern names the little pig Wilbur, whom she adores and loves taking care of. Wilbur soon gets too big and must be sold to a neighboring farm and Fern visits Wilbur as often as she can, but he sometimes gets lonely, and none of the other animals will have much to do with him. That is until he makes a new friend at the farm in Charlotte, the spider whose web is in Wilbur’s pen. Wilbur soon discovers the farmer’s plans for him and that he may not live past winter time, but Charlotte promises to help Wilbur in his plight.

Who wouldn’t love a story about an adorable pig and one girl’s will to keep him alive? Charlotte’s Web is a fun and enjoyable read about the love one creature and have towards others and how this love can save a life – in this case, a pig’s life. E.B. White created many memorable characters (that just happen to be animals) but who are clearly drawn and recognizable. The story shows how growth and maturity can come from one’s actions throughout life, and how a strong sense of giving and community can be seen in the actions of all those involved. Selflessness is a reoccurring theme throughout the book, along with love and caring. The concept of the life cycle is brought up, as well, and the grade level is an appropriate one to cover various life cycle routines. Although everyone in class cried over Charlotte’s ultimate fate, White handled it in such a delicate way as to make it understandable and even a necessary part of living.

A mature story about life and love and sacrifice and what’s important in life, that’s actually aimed at kids, Charlotte’s Web is a work of literature that will stay with you throughout your life.