The novel, Charlotte's Web begins with a young girl, Fern, who is intent on saving the life of a young, tiny pig named Wilber. After about five weeks of caring and nurturing the pig, Wilber is sent off to her uncle's farm to eventually be slaughtered for Christmas dinner. Wilber wants very much to live and make many barnyard friends along the way. He meets Charlotte, a radiant spider, who promises to help save his life. She weaves into her web descriptive words that represent Wilber and soon make him famous. Fern's uncle decided to enter Wilber into the animal fair in which he wins a special prize that does indeed save his life. Charlotte lives on through her children and Wilber repays the debt owed to Charlotte without hesitation.
The scene of Charlotte's Web that most appealed to me was when Fern pleaded with her father to keep the runt. Wilber was so tiny and was considered the runt. It appeals to me because Fern reminds me of a girl who truly and sincerely wants to make a difference and save a young pig's life. She tends to the pig in motherly fashion by feeding and caring for him daily. This scene was very sincere and heartwarming.
The theme for Charlotte's Web would be that true friendship is very valuable and necessary for every day life. "No pig ever had truer friends and he realized that friendship is one of the most satisfying things in the world" (p. 115). Having a true friend such as Charlotte who is loyal, nurturing, and unselfish brings a whole new meaning to life. When we are in a down spot in our life and feel somewhat unloved, there is always someone out there that cares for us, even if it is not evident. The novel shows that each person is special in their own way and people do take notice.
The author reveals the characters by scenes, gradually. For instance, Charlotte is introduced by whispering to Wilber in a time of his need. The strengths and weaknesses of the characters are very clear.
