Ann Patchett: Bel Canto Revisited

Charlotte's Web, written by E.B. White, is a timeless children's classic that tells the story of Wilbur, a pig, and Charlotte, a spider, who form an unlikely friendship. The story is set on a farm and revolves around the efforts of Charlotte to save Wilbur from being slaughtered. Through their relationship, the book explores themes of friendship, courage, self-sacrifice, and the natural cycle of life and death. The novel is known for its vivid depiction of farm life and its ability to address complex emotions and themes in a way that is accessible to children. The book has been widely acclaimed and has sold over 45 million copies worldwide since its publication in 1952.

Based on the Japanese embassy hostage crisis of 1996-1997 in Lima, Peru, the novel follows the relationships among a group of young terrorists and their hostages, mostly high-profile executives and politicians, over several months. The story highlights how opera becomes a central theme, binding the characters together despite their diverse backgrounds. As the hostage situation prolongs, unexpected bonds of friendship and love form between the captors and the hostages. The novel culminates in a tragic ending when government forces intervene, and it concludes with an epilogue that reunites some of the characters years later.