G- The Trumpet of the Swan (very slight v), Stuart Little, Charlotte's Web (some b)
E. B. White is well-known as the author of Charlotte's Web, but few people realize he qualifies as a fantasy writer. Writing from the perspective of animals is a classical fairy tale motif, the essence of most children's fantasy.
But rather than argue White's place as a fantasy author, I would like to argue his place as a children's author. These were some of the very first non-picture books I read (though many versions contain some black and white drawings), and I can still recall to this day (15 years later) details of the plots and characters. I like to think the moral lessons stuck with me as well.
Not only White's settings and characters, but also his writing style remain unique and beautiful. So if you're looking for something to give your 8-12 year old that both of you will enjoy, try these. They can also be appropriate for even younger ages; my four-year-old sister is in love with Charlotte's Web.
The Trumpet of the Swan: Sam Beaver is camping with his father in Canada when he discovers a small lake with a nest of Trumpeter Swans. One particular swan catches his eye- Louis, the swan with no voice. When he gets older, Louis attends school with Sam in Montana and learns to write, but that still doesn't help him communicate with other swans, for they can't read. Louis's father, in desperation, tarnishes his honor by stealing a trumpet for his son. Now Louis must make his way in the world and earn enough money to pay for the trumpet to clear his father's name. He also must somehow learn to catch the eye of the beautiful Serena, the swan he loves. A precious, heart-warming tale with strong characters and beautiful music. Louis is a hero who refuses to let what he was born without stop him from doing the most amazing things- he's an example every child needs.
Stuart Little, the second son of Mr. and Mrs. Frederick C. Little, was born looking very much like a mouse. He is two inches high, sleeps in a bed made of clothespins and a cigarette box, and wears a blue worsted suit. Life in his family is rather normal (for a family with a mouse-member). The first few chapters focus on how the family deals with having a mouse in the house. Stuart's adventure begins when he tries to find his best friend Margalo, a bird. The tone of this book is high class, but humerous. Stuart's adventures are delightful and memorable.
Need I recommend Charlotte's Web? The classic children's novel exploring life, friendship, and death remains a favorite that I still love to read. Fern Arable stops her father from killing a runt pig, so she gets to raise him. She names him Wilbur. After he is sold to Fern's uncle, Wilbur makes friends with the farm animals, especially a rat named Templeton and a spider named Charlotte. Together, his friends try to keep Wilbur from being sold for pork. A touching book to share with any child- my 4-year-old sister loves it as much as I do.
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Last Updated: July 20, 1999
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