Book Review: Charlotte's Web by E.B. White

5 stars

“‘Why did you do all this for me?’ he asked. ‘I don’t deserve it. I’ve never done anything for you.’

‘You have been my friend,’ replied Charlotte. ‘That in itself is a tremendous thing.’”

I have loved this story since I was a little girl, but reading it as an adult was so much more enjoyable. White’s beautiful descriptions of the animals, nature, the seasons, and the circle of life were outside my childish sphere of appreciation. His not-so-subtle statements about society were also completely lost on me as a child. 

“‘If I can fool a bug,’ thought Charlotte, ‘I can surely fool a man. People are not as smart as bugs.’”

Dr. Dorian, my favorite character aside from Charlotte, encourages us to remember how much more children can hear than adults. How much closer they are to all that is pure. I love the way White used this small minor character to deliver such important reminders.

I encourage everyone to reread this childhood classic.  And then, take a look around for the Charlottes in your life - the ones who do the hardest work with the smallest voices, the ones who let everyone else have a day in the sun at their expense. These people, who radiate love and generosity, are the backbone of humanity.  Notice them, hear them, love them.