The Trumpet of the Swan by E.B. White follows Louis, a Trumpeter Swan born without a voice, who learns to communicate by playing a trumpet. With the help of a boy named Sam, Louis becomes literate, gains musical skills, and works various jobs to pay off the trumpet his father stole. Louis eventually wins the affection of a swan named Serena and they start a family, integrating his success with humans into his swan life.

E. B. White's The Trumpet of the Swan has been praised for its charming storytelling, memorable characters, and eloquent prose. Reviewers commend its heartwarming messages and appeal to both children and adults. Some critics note a slower pace and dated aspects. Overall, it is cherished for its imaginative and gentle narrative that inspires perseverance.

Readers who cherish The Trumpet of the Swan by E. B. White are likely fans of heartwarming, classic children’s literature. They appreciate the charm of Charlotte’s Web and the adventure of Stuart Little. This audience enjoys stories with animal protagonists and themes of friendship, courage, and personal growth.

Inspirational / Heartwarming / Fantastical / Adventurous / Humorous

- The Trumpet of the Swan was the last children's book written by E. B. White, and it was published in 1970, seventeen years after his classic Charlotte's Web.
- The book was honored with the William Allen White Children's Book Award in 1973, recognizing its appeal to schoolchildren in Kansas.
- E. B. White's love for nature and animals, which is evident in The Trumpet of the Swan, was inspired by his own experiences living on a farm in Maine.

**Louis**  
A Trumpeter Swan born with an inability to make sounds, who becomes a strong swimmer, flier, and an intelligent, independent individual. He develops a passion for music as he grows older and becomes a professional musician.

**Sam Beaver**  
A resourceful and thoughtful young boy who befriends Louis and supports him throughout their mutual adventures. He loves exploring nature and provides guidance and help to Louis.

**The Cob and the Swan**  
Parents of Louis, who display deep love and commitment to their family. The cob is grandiose and self-focused, while the swan is practical and straightforward in her approach to the family’s challenges.

**Serena**  
A young swan who becomes the object of Louis’s affection and eventually his wife. Initially uninterested in Louis due to his lack of voice, she becomes charmed by his musical talent.

**Mrs. Hammerbotham and Mr. Brickle**  
Adults who assist Louis during his youth, with Mrs. Hammerbotham teaching him to read and write, and Mr. Brickle hiring him as a camp bugler and recognizing his value through awards.

**The Boatman, Abe “Lucky” Lucas, and the Head Man**  
Adults Louis meets in his career as a musician, who help guide him through professional settings. The Boatman assists Louis with accommodations, Mr. Lucas is firm yet informative about zoo policies, and the Head Man deals with Louis’s dealings related to Serena.

**Mr. and Mrs. Beaver**  
Sam's parents, who support and provide a secure foundation for Sam. They offer general parental advice despite not fully understanding his independent nature.

E. B. White

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Teaching Guide

Before You Read

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Before You Read The Trumpet of the Swan | SuperSummary

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Overview

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The Trumpet of the Swan Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-3	

The Trumpet of the Swan Chapters 1-3	 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-6

The Trumpet of the Swan Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 7-9

The Trumpet of the Swan Chapters 7-9 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 10-12

The Trumpet of the Swan Chapters 10-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-15

The Trumpet of the Swan Chapters 13-15 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 16-18	

The Trumpet of the Swan Chapters 16-18	 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 19-21	

The Trumpet of the Swan Chapters 19-21	 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Trumpet of the Swan Character Analysis

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Themes

The Trumpet of the Swan Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Trumpet of the Swan Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Trumpet of the Swan Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Trumpet of the Swan Essay Topics

The Trumpet of the Swan Teaching Unit

Introduction

The Trumpet of the Swan Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

Reading Context

The Trumpet of the Swan Reading Context

During Reading

Reading Questions & Paired Texts

The Trumpet of the Swan Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Answer Key

The Trumpet of the Swan Reading Questions Answer Key

After Reading

Discussion/Analysis Prompt

The Trumpet of the Swan Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Activities

The Trumpet of the Swan Activities

Essay Questions

The Trumpet of the Swan Essay Questions

Exam Questions

The Trumpet of the Swan Cumulative Exam Questions

Exam Answer Key

The Trumpet of the Swan Exam Answer Key

The Trumpet of the Swan

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Trumpet of the Swan?

Reading Age

Book Details