E.B. White’s Charlotte’s Web is one of the most treasured children books of all time. It is a touching story of friendship and trust in which a spider name Charlotte saves a pig name Wilbur from the fate of being slaughtered like other pig at the farm. Charlotte tries to convince the farmer with writing on her web from killing Wilbur. Her words evoke the idea that Wilbur is not just an ordinary pig but one worthy of being kept alive on the farm. Through Charlotte’s cunning, Wilbur is able to survive and even win a prize at the county fair. In return, Wilbur thanks Charlotte in the end by bringing her eggs home to the farm to hatch.
The talking animals and the events that take place at the farm create a memorable and enjoyable story. The intricate description of the motion of the spider strings stand for the motion of the story. This simple verse yet meaningful short story is a perfect children’s book for children to enjoy while transitioning to novels.
The story also offers a maternal element in which Charlotte acts as a mother to Wilbur whom she protects and teaches. By providing the animals with human characteristics, the author adds depth to the short story which enables readers to sympathize with the animals and view them in a new light. Wilbur is not just an animal to be eaten but deserves a chance to live like a human being and Charlotte is not just an emotionless spider on the farm but a motherly one whom protects those that she love. The bond between Charlotte and Wilbur makes the story nostalgic.
Together, the animals bravely take on the challenge of surviving the fate of all animals on the farm, which is to be eventually slaughtered, and even in the face of danger, the animals do not despair. In their quest to change the norm, we are taken on a wonderful adventure, making the story fun and enjoyable.
