It was on this day in 1952 that the classic childrens' novel Charlotte's Web was published. The book by E.B. White has received many awards and praises over the years, but none can match the bright eyed enthusiasm of a young reader flipping these pages for the first time.

I read Charlotte's Web when I was in the third grade. I remember that I read it from cover to cover in a matter of five or six hours while my babysitter was downstairs watching her stupid soap opera and eating Oreos (it has been awhile and perhaps my details are flawed... they may have been Girl Scout Cookies... probably Thin Mints).

It was the first book I had ever looked at that could hold my interest for more than a fleeting moment. I devoured it. I was in tears by the end of the book. Whatever, I was 8. I was allowed a little emotion. Anyway, to make a short story shorter, the book rocked my world. And yet, for some reason, I haven't picked it up again since.

This weekend I shall remedy that. Care to join me? You won't be sorry. If you've never read this book, you're in for quite a treat. ... I suppose I have to buy Oreos now, too. Sheesh!