Best/Worst Surprise Endings

Charlotte’s Web
E. B. White

It may be a cliché to say Charlotte’s Web is one of my all-time favorite books. Yet, it is. Who can resist the comical barnyard antics, the magic of Charlotte’s wee-hour artwork, and the suspense of Wilbur’s fate? All of the characters endeared themselves to me, but of course, I especially fell in love with Charlotte. As an impressionable child, I was touched by her caring nature, her love for Wilbur, and her self-sacrifice. The first time I read this story, I could not believe Charlotte died in the end. It seemed so unfair. My heart broke. I felt as though it was my own best friend, not just Wilbur’s, who died. But that didn’t stop me from reading it again.

– Angie Dilmore