Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt 

Summary:  Caldecott honoree Melissa Sweet presents the life of E. B. White through her words, his words, illustrations, and photographs.  Beginning with the cleverly decorated endpapers and continuing through the fascinating timeline at the end, readers will learn about the life and loves of the author of (among many other things) Stuart Little, Charlotte’s Web, and The Trumpet of the Swan.  There are 13 chapters, many of them given the name of one of White’s essays, including a chapter each on his three children’s books.  In addition to the timeline, this meticulously researched biography includes 162 source notes, a five-page bibliography, and an afterword by E. B. White’s granddaughter, Martha White. 176 pages; grades 2-6.

Pros:  Let’s hope this will be that rare biography that is recognized by Newbery committee.  Or the Caldecott committee.  Or both.  As Eudora Welty wrote about Charlotte’s Web: “As a piece of work it is just about perfect.”

Cons:  By the time I reached page 176, I wanted to be E. B. White.  Or maybe Melissa Sweet.