Once Upon a Time
From Charlotte’s Web to the present day, a look at how children’s literature tackles loss and grief. What can we learn from children themselves?
In Charlotte’s Web, Wilbur the pig has to accept his best friend Charlotte is dying.
“I’m done for," she replied. "In a day or two I'll be dead. I haven't even the strength enough to climb down into the crate."
E B White’s classic was published in 1952. Inspired by personal events, Mel Harris sets out to find out about some of the books available to children who are facing death and bereavement. Where are the contemporary alternatives to Charlotte's Web? What solace and support might children find in literature today? Can sad books also be funny? She talks to writers and storytellers, including our new Children’s Laureate Joseph Coelho. And she talks to children too.
Contributors: Sue Hollingsworth, Myra Bluebond-Langner, Sally Nicholls, Esther Pittello, Joseph Coelho and Georgia Nasseh, with special thanks to the children involved.
Produced and presented by Mel Harris
Research by Tess Davidson
Executive Production by Geoff Bird
Sound Design by Eloise Whitmore
A Sparklab production for Â鶹ԼÅÄ Radio 4
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Broadcasts
- Thu 15 Sep 2022 11:30Â鶹ԼÅÄ Radio 4
- Tue 4 Oct 2022 16:00Â鶹ԼÅÄ Radio 4