Lifetime Reading List: Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White

One of the books I’d always wanted to read as a child was Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White. However, neither of my parents ever really had the time to help me read it, and by the time I was old enough to read it unassisted, my copy was lost in the shuffle of my parents’ divorce and I forgot about the book. When it came time for me to read Charlotte’s Web as a part of this Lifetime Reading List I’ve started, I couldn’t wait.

Within a few pages, the first word to come to mind was “charming.” Charlotte’s Web is a beautiful story while amazing elements of humor for both children and adults alike, which reinforces this book’s status as a literary masterpiece.

The tale of Wilbur, a pig who wants to live past Christmas dinner, and Charlotte, a clever spider, Charlotte’s Web is a light-hearted story that should certainly be a part of every child’s reading experience. The evolving fancies of youth (demonstrated by Fern, Wilbur’s initial caretaker) are timeless while Wilbur’s longing for a friend is a sensation so many of us understand first-hand. Meanwhile, Templeton the rat provides comedic relief as well as a character our grumpier sides can relate to, simultaneously providing a lesson for young readers about unexpected allies (he’s my favorite character!).

I loved everything about Charlotte’s Web and am absolutely over-the-moon happy that my almost three-year-old already seems interested in books – I can’t wait to read this one with him, especially considering how much he loves caring for animals (and that he has pet rats). This book absolutely belongs on the 100 Must-Read Books in a Lifetime list, toward the very top.

And now, I’ve gotta go build my son a bookshelf for his new room because I’m just so excited to start reading the books that I love with him!