Charlotte's Web is a timeless piece of children's literature written by American author E. B. White. First published in 1952, this novel has captivated audiences for generations with its heartwarming tale of friendship, change, and the cycle of life. The story revolves around a runt pig named Wilbur and his unique friendship with a wise barn spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur faces the threat of being slaughtered, Charlotte devises a plan to save him by weaving words like "Some Pig" and "Terrific" into her web, aiming to convince the farmer that Wilbur is no ordinary pig and thus should be spared.
The narrative also explores the themes of innocence, friendship, and the acceptance of change. Fern Arable, a young girl, initially saves Wilbur from being slaughtered because he is the runt of his litter. As Fern grows older, her interests begin to shift, illustrating the inevitable journey from childhood to the edge of adulthood. Likewise, Wilbur confronts the realities of life and death, learning to appreciate the time he has and the friendships he's made, especially with Charlotte. Despite its moments of joy and celebration, the novel also addresses the concept of mortality, as evidenced by Charlotte's life coming to an end after saving Wilbur.
This beloved story, which emphasizes the value of friendship and the natural cycles of life and death, has garnered widespread acclaim and numerous awards, including a Newbery Honor. It has been adapted into animated and live-action films, musical productions, and even a video game, reflecting its lasting impact on children’s literature. With over 45 million copies sold and translations into 23 languages, Charlotte's Web remains an enduring classic, cherished by readers of all ages.
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About the author
E. B. White
E. B. (Elwyn Brooks) White was an American writer celebrated for his contributions to both children's literature and American letters. He wrote more than 20 books across genres, including the beloved children's classics Charlotte's Web, Stuart Little, and The Trumpet of the Swan. He is also known for his numerous essays and articles and his work as the reviser of The Elements of Style, the revered guide for writers of American English, originally penned by his college English professor, Wlliam Strunk Jr.
Born in 1899, in Mount Vernon, New York, White was the youngest of six children in a family that placed a priority on art, literature, and exploring the natural world. In 1921, he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Cornell University. After graduation, he spent a year each with the United Press and the American Legion News Service, moved to The Seattle Times as a cub reporter and then wrote for the rival Seattle Post-Intelligencer, had a stint in Alaska on a fireboat, and then worked as a production assistant and copywriter for an advertising agency. He joined The New Yorker as a staff writer in 1927, two years after its founding, and continued to write for the magazine for nearly six decades, becoming one of its best known and most important contributors.
Throughout his career, White was lauded with numerous honors. In 1963, President John F. Kennedy awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom. In 1970, he was recognized by the Association of Library Service to Children with the Laura Ingalls Wilder Medal (renamed the Children’s Literature Legacy Award in 2018). In 1971, he received the National Medal for Literature. And in 1978, he was given a special Pulitzer Prize citation for his body of work. White passed away in 1985, leaving behind a rich legacy celebrated through the E.B. White Read Aloud Award, established by The Association of Booksellers for Children in 2004 to honor outstanding books for reading aloud, as well as an enduring admiration for his stories and his guidance.
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