E.B. White

E.B. White was an American writer. He was born in Mount Vernon, New York, in 1899. He wrote Charlotte's Web and Stuart Little, two of the most loved children's books ever. He was also a famous essayist and writer for The New Yorker magazine.

Early Life

Elwyn Brooks White was the youngest of six children. He was shy and loved animals as a boy. He went to Cornell University and studied English. After college, he became a writer for The New Yorker magazine.

Famous Books

Charlotte's Web tells the story of a pig named Wilbur and a spider named Charlotte. Stuart Little is about a tiny mouse born to a human family. Both books teach lessons about friendship and courage. Charlotte's Web has sold over 45 million copies.

Fun Facts

• E.B. White got the idea for Charlotte's Web while watching a spider spin a web in his barn.
• He raised animals on his farm in Maine, including pigs, geese, and chickens.
• His full first name was Elwyn, but he never liked it.

Did You Know?

E.B. White also co-wrote a famous grammar book called The Elements of Style. It is still used by writers and students today.