Everyone knows and loves Charlotte's Web. But The Trumpet of the Swan (one of E.B. White's other animal books for children) isn't nearly as famous. It's also not nearly as heartwrenching--instead it's a rather sweet story of the friendship between a boy and a swan.

Louis, the titular swan, is a fantastic character. Without the ability to make a sound, he can't attract a mate, but the resourceful bird manages to learn to play trumpet to impress the beautiful Serena. (Along the way, he also learns to read and write, works as a camp bugler, plays his horn in Boston and Philadelphia, and earns the money to pay for the stolen musical instrument. As I said, he is quite resourceful.)

Part fantasy, part paean to the the natural world, and part coming of age story (for both Louis and his human friend, Sam), it's a gentle book that children love and adults remember fondly. If you have a young child in your life, read this one aloud. If you have a slightly older child in your life, gift a copy for independent reading. The subtle humor is appropriate for all ages, as are the equally subtle lessons about resiliance, perseverance, friendship, and loyalty.

NOVEL: The Trumpet of the Swan

YEAR OF PUBLICATION: 1970

IMAGE: book cover, HarperCollins