SYNOPSIS

A farmer’s daughter saves the pig litter’s runt, names him Wilbur and nurtures him fondly.

Once decently grown, Wilbur is moved to a nearby farm and makes friends with geese, sheep and a rat.

His best friend, however, is Charlotte – a spider and a master storyteller.

When Wilbur learns the terrifying news that he is to be eaten for Christmas, Charlotte commits to saving her friend’s life.

After much quiet deliberation and analysis of people’s gullible ways, she designs a brilliant plan – in her web, she weaves shimmering signs, advertisements of sorts, extolling Wilbur’s amazing qualities.

Impressed by Wilbur’s exceptionality and village-wide fame, the farmer’s family take him to the state fair where Wilbur wins a prize and a slaughter-free life.

Her mission accomplished, Charlotte dies with Wilbur by her side. He’s not alone for long – Charlotte’s last eggs hatch and some become Wilbur’s new friends.

PERFECT AGE 6 – 99

We love

• The animals’ distinct personalities, relatable and recognizable as if they’re our own human friends.
• The story’s many opportunities for teachable lessons in empathy, teamwork, creative thinking, hard work, you name it.
• E. B. White’s writing is accessible to young readers and at the same time deeply poetic and meditative.
• The definition of a book gem – no matter how many times you read it, you enjoy revisiting it…

CONVERSATION STARTERS

• Why do you think Charlotte decides to help Wilbur?
• Observing the animals, what they say and how they behave, can you describe their personalities? Do they remind you of people you know?
• What is remarkable about those of Charlotte’s children that leave? Do they remind you of anything earlier in the book?
• What is your favorite moment in the story? Why?