Charlotte's Web

Charlotte’s Web was written by E.B White and illustrated by Garth Williams in 1952. It is a John Newberry award winner.

White, EB. & Williams, G. (1952). Charlotte’s Web. New York: Harper Collins.

Exposition:

This story starts at the Arable farm, and the moves to the Zuckerman farm, where most of the story takes place. There is also some time spent at the County Fair. The characters are Wilbur, Charlotte, Templeton, Fern, the farm animals, and the Zuckermans.  

Conflict:

Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered.

Rising Action:

Charlotte begins to spin words of praise describing Wilbur in her web trying to convince Homer of his worth so he will not slaughter Wilbur.

Climax:

Wilbur and Charlotte go to the County Fair where they win a prize. Charlotte has reached the end of her life and dies.

Falling Action:

Wilbur must return to the farm without Charlotte, but takes her sac of eggs back with him to be born at the farm.

Resolution:

Charlotte’s babies are born and most of them move off. Three stay with Wilbur at the farm, even though they cannot replace Charlotte.

Literary Qualities:

The precise vocabulary in this story enchanting and engages the reader from the beginning.  There are many unexpected insights throughout the storyline that are surprising to find in a children’s novel. The lesson that friends can come in all shapes and sizes, and may appear to be nothing alike is invaluable.