Charlotte’s Web: Life Lessons for Kids

Disclaimer: We would like to caution you that this blog post contains some spoilers for the book. 

I believe that every child in primary school should read the book, Charlotte’s Web written by E.B White to experience the magic of words and be transported to another world. This book has the power to get children hooked on the story of Wilbur and Charlotte from the very start. This reading experience can make a lot of difference in shaping a child’s understanding of empathy and friendship. Through this thrilling story of a young girl and animals, I found this book to be a powerful tool to imbibe values of friendship and mutual respect in children.

A catalyst for imparting life skills 

The patience shown by Fern in taking care of Wilbur when he was just a runt brings values of loyalty, friendship, and honesty to the forefront. When you read Chapter 4 of the book, you will reckon that just when you lose all hope, something amazing is waiting to happen to you! This chapter is a tutor to stay optimistic in life when difficult situations come your way. One can find many other such invaluable lessons from this book if one is willing to read with undivided attention. 

An emotional tale of sacrifice and true friendship 

Chapters 19 and 20 take you on an emotional rollercoaster and show us how Charlotte sacrifices everything and leaves no stone unturned to ensure save Wilbur’s life and ensure he wins the competition. As a reader, you can witness Wilbur’s gradual transformation from a meek and cowardly runt into a mature, responsible friend who cares for Charlotte’s children. It would be no surprise if this chapter brings a lump in your throat or a layer of mist in your eyes. In today’s modern world, I believe it is of great importance to teach our children the meaning of sacrifice and righteousness, and these chapters do exactly that through an intriguing and engaging story.

A way to uncover your child’s emotional potential 

What lies behind this appeal to encourage your children to read this book is simple – to mould them into people who can comfort a fellow friend or classmate, lend a shoulder to cry on or hold the door open for a teacher. After all, it is values such as empathy, kindness and respect that can change the world for the better.

Ms. Jyotsna Dwivedi

CAIE Primary Teacher

I am a Primary teacher with a Post-Graduate degree in Botany and English and a Degree in Education. Teaching primary kids is my passion. I love spending my day with them. I work with a desire to bring a difference to their lives.  It is astonishing to experience their raw emotions, enthusiasm, and curiosity every day. I feel rejuvenated by their thoughts, ideas and multitudes of personality trait