This short old illustrated classic by the late American author is listed as a children’s novel, but is an absolute delight for anyone. A young girl saves a runt newborn pig from execution and nurses him to maturity. The talking animals and insects that constitute the fanciful plot include sheep, geese, cows and most importantly a spider named Charlotte, who is vital to the plot, weaving complex messages to humans in her webs.
One quote from Charlotte: “…what is a life anyway? We’re born, we live a little while, we die…. By helping you, perhaps I was trying to lift up my life a trifle. Heaven knows anyone’s life can stand a little of that.”
I usually don’t like fantasy stories but this one is loaded with deep meaning that can be appreciated by children and adults alike.
5/5
Thanks, The New Yorker.
The Passionate Reader 