Charlotte’s Web
by E.B. White
Classics, Fiction, Fantasy, Young-Adult, Middle-Grade, Animals
This beloved book by E. B. White, author of Stuart Little and The Trumpet of the Swan, is a classic of children’s literature that is “just about perfect.” Some Pig. Humble. Radiant. These are the words in Charlotte’s Web, high up in Zuckerman’s barn. Charlotte’s spiderweb tells of her feelings for a little pig named Wilbur, who simply wants a friend. They also express the love of a girl named Fern, who saved Wilbur’s life when he was born the runt of his litter. E. B. White’s Newbery Honor Book is a tender novel of friendship, love, life, and death that will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come.
Recommendations from Common Sense Media
Age Recommendation: 7+
What Parents Need to Know:
Parents need to know that E.B. White‘s children’s classic begins with the main character (a young pig) nearly being slaughtered by a farmer. Wilbur also learns that he’s to be eaten for Christmas dinner. When a major character dies, peacefully but alone — all children (and most adults) will cry. All readers will also be reminded about what it means to be a good friend and be inspired by the book’s messages about the power of love. The audiobook is lovingly read by the author.
Educational Value: 2/5
Readers will learn a lot through this book’s messages and may be inspired to read more children’s classics or other books by E.B. White, such as Stuart Little. They’ll also learn from Charlotte what a “Magnum Opus” is.
Positive Messages: 4/5
This book celebrates the power of friendship and love — and even that death is a part of life. All these messages are beautifully conveyed in a way that kids will understand and be moved by.
Positive Role Models: 4/5
Charlotte is selfless and kind, working hard to protect Wilbur. Wilbur in turn repays the favor when she needs him. Fern also takes good care of Wilbur when he’s a baby and is a good friend to him through her childhood.
Violence & Scariness: 2/5
A very sad death. Plus, Wilbur is almost killed when he is born because he’s a runt — and he worries about his own death on the farm when he learns what happens to a spring pig.
Sex, Romance & Nudity: n/a
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Language: n/a
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Products & Purchases: 1/5
Cereal and car brands mentioned.
Drinking, Drugs & Smoking: 1/5
An adult smokes a pipe.
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