Charlotte's Web

Author/Illustrator: E.B White/ Garth Williams

Genre: Fantasy

Awards: Newberry Honor 

Grade Level: 3rd-5th

A young girl named Fern begged her dad to spare the life of a little runt piglet. He agrees but gave him to her to look after. She named him Wilbur and they became the best of friends. So much to the point where her mother sold him to the Zuckerman barn. Wilbur friends a spider named Charlotte. Charlotte keeps Wilbur's mind off of Fern whom he misses terribly. As Wilbur starts to fit in and become close to the animals, especially Charlotte, he gets news that the farmer is fattening him to be sold. Charlotte starts planning a way to save Wilbur's life. Charlotte starts spinning words about Wilbur into her web which catches the attention of the farmer. They decide to take him to the fair to show him off and Charlotte tags along though she is about to lay eggs. Though Charlotte is not at best she still is determined to help Wilbur win first place when she sees his competition. She writes the word Humble on her web. Although Wilbur did not win he was called to receive a special award. Once back in his pen Wilbur notices Charlotte is not well, and she breaks the news. She will not be returning to the barn with him, this will be their final goodbye. Wilbur takes her sac with him and awaits the arrival of his new friend. None of which will ever replace Charlotte.

This book is a great read for students in 3rd through 5th grade. It is a good beginner chapter book because of the vocabulary and structure of the sentences. I would most likely use this book in my classroom for book clubs/guided reading groups. I would not use it for instructional purposes.