Charlotte's Web

by E. B. White

Yes, Charlotte's Web is a children's book, but it tugged at my heartstrings and made me appreciate friends, life, coming of age, and acts of kindnesses even more. And while I am, admittedly, a tad embarrassed that it took me all of my n years to read this book, the fact that I have actually gone and read it, and found that I loved it very much, more than make up for the unintentional delay.

Charlotte's Web is the endearing story of Wilbur, a little pig, who was saved from future butchering by Charlotte, a spider. Their friendship is one that transcended even death, and it was so poignant and simple that I took a moment to take it all in after reading the book.

How Charlotte helped Wilbur. :)

The beauty of this book lies in its simplicity, without subtracting anything from the depiction of the characters. For, the animal characters – Wilbur, Charlotte, Templeton the rat, and the other residents of the barn – were so well-drawn, their voices resonated clearly throughout the narrative. The goose – oh, the goose! - was one heck of a character, too, and Wilbur himself was one charming little pig. Charlotte was, obviously, the main character - the star of the show - whose intelligence, selflessness and compassion are all very moving, indeed. Templeton, the gluttonous rat, who I was almost certain would ruin everything for Wilbur, ended up being one of the more important and colorful characters not only because of his scheming ways, but because he also proved my assumptions wrong.

Charlotte's Web is a timeless tale replete with life lessons for all to learn, regardless of age or status. I can't wait for the day when I can read this to my daughter and teach her the meaning of friendship, sacrifice, and love.

Rating:  ★★★★