Charlotte's Web - E. B. White

Another children’s book review from me today, and this time the utterly gorgeous and charming Charlotte’s Web by E. B. White. This book was published in 1952 and is the ultimate heartwarming spring-time read. It follows a little girl, Fern, who rescues a piglet, who is the runt of the litter, from being slaughtered. She names the piglet Wilbur and cares for him as she would her own child, forming a special bond with the adorable animal.

Wilbur befriends other animals in the barn, including a goose, sheep and a particularly special spider who is called Charlotte. The animals warn Wilbur that come Christmas time he will be sent to slaughter, as this is what happens to animals which have been fattened up throughout the year. Wilbur is terrified and together with Charlotte, they formulate a plan to save him from the chopping block. Charlotte, an extremely clever spider, weaves words into her web using her silky threads which act as a sort of marketing tool for Wilbur, letting the farmers and people of the village know what a special pig he is. Words like ‘humble’ and ‘radiant’ frame the little pig whilst he basks in the glory of the appreciating locals.

White’s storytelling is simple and beautiful, and this is really a lovely little tale of friendship and sacrifice. There are also some charming illustrations scattered throughout this edition and I’m so glad I finally read this classic and well-loved novel.