Review: Carle, E. (1987). The Very hungry caterpillar.

Carle, E. (1987). The Very hungry caterpillar. New York, NY: Philomel Books.

Originally published 1969.

Eric Carle has published over forty children’s picture books in numerous countries and languages, the most famous of which is his early The Very Hungry Caterpillar in 1969, a colorful escapade about a ravenous caterpillar that has spawned entire collections of children’s merchandise, themed baby showers, and licensed nursery decor.

What makes the caterpillar so appealing to multiple generations of readers?  Is it the tactile element--the educational value--or just the caterpillar’s humorous expressions and rapid growth?  Attention-grabbing primary colors contrast against white pages as die-cut holes that children can see and feel illustrate the many items through which the caterpillar has eaten before his ultimate metamorphosis.  The seven days of the week are cleverly taught, as well as the basic life cycle of a “beautiful butterfly.” As a book, then board book, and even pop-up book, it has remained a favorite among the youngest readers for half a century.

Not to be overlooked are Carle’s many other delightful books, all featuring his signature sparse but effective text, a host of animal protagonists, and bright, alluring artwork which he creates using paints and tissue paper collage.  Click for a fascinating slideshow which he entitled “How I create my pictures.”

This long-standing classic reminds us all that we are ever in the process of becoming who we are meant to be.  Slipped between the lessons on metamorphosis, counting, and days of the week, is one other hidden wisdom for children--eating greens instead of junk food makes you feel “much better”!

Here is a free coloring page to accompany the book, as well as a number of literacy lessons.

Click