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Readers > Talk it Up! > Discussion guides > The Trumpet of the Swan

The Trumpet of the Swan by E.B. White

Summary

Louis is a young trumpeter swan who faces the unthinkable situation of not having a voice. Helped by his father, who steals a trumpet for him, and by his 11-year-old human friend Sam, Louis overcomes his situation and becomes a great musician. Many readers say this book is even better than Charlotte's Web or Stuart Little. Read it and see what you think.

210 pages, 3rd grade and up

Discussion questions

Spoiler alert! Some of the questions contain key elements of the plot. Do not read if you don't want to know what happens!

  1. What did you like about Louis?
  2. Do you like animal adventure books? What does it take for you to belive in the character?
  3. How does Louis feel when he can't communicate to Serena?
  4. Some reader's think that The Trumpet of the Swans is better thatn Charlotte's Web or Stuart Little. Have you read either of these books? How would you compare them?
  5. How does Sam help Louis?
  6. Would you describe Louis as disabled? Did reading this book give you any insight into what it would be like to live with a disability?
  7. Would you recommend this book? Who do you think would enjoy it most?

Activities

Map out the various places that Louis visits during his journeys.

Created in part with funds granted by the Oregon State Library under the Library Services and Technology Act, administered by the Oregon State Library. Send feedback to Katie O'Dell, Reading Promotions Coordinator