Charlotte’s Web
Written by: E.B. White
Illustrated by: Garth Williams
Recommended for ages 4 and up
Harper Collins $9.99

You may remember this classic from your childhood as it was first published in 1952, however as the saying goes ‘a good book is worth reading again and again’. This novel is no exception. Recently, I decided to read it to our two young boys (ages 4 and 6) in anticipation of the release of the major motion picture. I thought they may be too young for it but lucky for me I was wrong! Each night they would quickly prepare for bed anxiously awaiting what was to come next. We thoroughly enjoyed the antics of the farm animals and the personality traits of each. Mac, with his great sense of humour, especially enjoyed Goose and her extensive vocabulary. Templeton, the rat, plays the bad guy with his sneaky ways while Wilbur, in his timid manner, is a loveable character and Charlotte, is a little more forthright…all attributes to which we can relate.

The sporadic illustrations helped my youngsters visualize who was who yet encouraged them to use their imagination for most of the story. Although this tale has some old-fashioned qualities it is not so much so that children will be confused by reading it. It is truly a magical story of friendship between unlikely companions. I highly recommend this book as a great read-aloud for young readers or as a novel to be read for pleasure by older children.

** As a sidebar, the movie was an absolute joy to watch with no fear of vulgarities or obscene language, a rare find these days.