E.B. White is one of the most popular children’s writers of all time. His three children’s books are read worldwide and have been translated into dozens of languages. White’s stories have delighted readers for generations. But there’s much more to E.B. White than his beloved children’s classics.
E.B. White was born in Mt. Vernon, New York
E.B. White was born on July 11, 1899, in Mount Vernon, New York, to parents Jesse and Rebecca White. His family had deep roots in New England, with his father’s family coming from England in 1635.
From a young age, E.B. White was exposed to literature as his parents ran a bookstore. He grew up surrounded by books, spending much of his childhood reading. He then embarked on a career in journalism, becoming a regular contributor to The New Yorker.
He attended Cornell University
E.B. White studied at Cornell University from 1917 to 1921, where he majored in English. He wrote for both the Cornell Sun and the Cornell Daily, becoming editor of the former and president of the latter. He was also a member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. During his time at the school, White wrote humorous essays and stories for the college newspaper.
He also wrote a column for the campus magazine that made fun of faculty and administration. After graduating in 1921, White spent 4 years in Seattle and Alaska before returning to New York to become a reporter for The New Yorker, eventually becoming its principal editorial writer.
After college, he worked as a reporter for The New Yorker
E.B. White joined The New Yorker in 1927 as a freelance writer and later became a staff writer. During his time at the magazine, he wrote short stories, book reviews, and even a weekly column for more than 40 years. His weekly columns were published in several collections, such as “One Man’s Meat” and “The Points of My Compass”.
He was also an editor at the magazine from 1944 to 1948 and wrote a few of their famous Talk of the Town pieces. E.B. White left The New Yorker in 1976 after almost 50 years of writing and editing with them.
He wrote Charlotte’s Web while living on a farm in Maine
E.B. White wrote Charlotte’s Web while living on a farm in Maine. White was inspired by the animals and nature around him on the farm, and he used these elements to create the story of Wilbur the pig, Charlotte the spider, and the other characters in the novel. He also drew on his own childhood memories to create the story and make it as relatable as possible.
By living on a farm, White was able to observe animals in their natural habitat and capture their behaviors to use as inspiration for his writing. White’s time on the farm also allowed him to reflect and create a powerful story about friendship, family, and life’s simple wonders.
He also wrote Stuart Little and The Trumpet of the Swan
E.B. White wrote two beloved children’s novels: Stuart Little in 1945 and The Trumpet of the Swan in 1970. Stuart Little follows the adventures of a mouse born into a human family, while The Trumpet of the Swan tells the story of a young swan who learns to communicate with a trumpet he is given as a gift.
These books are important in the world of children’s literature. Stuart Little has been praised for its clever language, imaginative plot, and subtle lessons about acceptance and courage. The Trumpet of the Swan continues White’s exploration of family dynamics and belonging, making it an enduring classic. Both books have been adapted for film and continue to be enjoyed by readers of all ages.
He won a special Pulitzer Prize
In 1978 E.B. White won a special Pulitzer Prize citation for his life works, including an essay about the city of New York. In the essay, he captures the spirit of the city with a deep love and respect for its complexity.
White begins by discussing the size and density of New York City and its ever-changing environment. He also talks about the overwhelming feeling of being lost in the big city and how it can both inspire and intimidate its inhabitants. He acknowledges the different social classes that exist within New York and how it is home to all kinds of people. He talks about the beauty of its skyline and its unique architecture, as well as its bustling energy.
White’s essay is an ode to the city he loved so much and a tribute to its hard-working citizens. It is a reminder that despite the chaos and hustle of the big city, it is still a place of great beauty. This essay serves as a testament to why White deservedly won the Pulitzer Prize for his work – because it captures the true essence of New York City.
He died in 1985
E.B. White died on October 1, 1985, in North Brooklin, Maine. The cause of his death was Alzheimer’s.
White left behind a tremendous legacy. He is remembered as one of the most beloved children’s authors of all time, with his works Charlotte’s Web, Stuart Little, and The Trumpet of the Swan remaining classics today.
His essays were later collected and published in the book One Man’s Meat.
White was an influential voice in the literary world, both as a children’s author and as a reporter. He was known for his wit and intelligence, and his works will continue to entertain and inspire readers for years to come.
FAQs
What is E.B. White known for?
E.B. White is best known for his children’s books, such as Charlotte’s Web and Stuart Little, as well as his many essays published in The New Yorker. His legacy is still cherished today, with his beloved books continuing to be read and enjoyed by generations of readers.
Is E.B. White an important writer?
Yes, E.B. White was an important writer whose works remain relevant and popular today. His novels, such as Charlotte’s Web and Stuart Little, are classics, and his essays, such as ‘Here Is New York,’ have become a part of American culture.
How many children’s books did E.B. White write?
E.B. White wrote three iconic children’s books: Charlotte’s Web, Stuart Little, and The Trumpet of the Swan. His novels inspired generations of children’s writers and are beloved by adults and young readers around the world.
