Books

Cleveland: World Publishing, 1969. First edition, first printing of Carle's most recognizable work (with the complete number line 1-5 on the copyright page and A3450 on the rear board). Oblong quarto, original illustrated boards. Fine in a very good dust jacket price-clipped dust jacket. "Eric Carle was one of the first illustrators intrigued with the idea of introducing natural science concepts to young children. The Very Hungry Caterpillar has remained in print for [over] 25 years, attesting to its popularity" (Silvey, 120). The Very Hungry Caterpillar was originally published in 1969 and has since sold over 30 million copies and was voted the number two children's picture book in a 2012 survey of School Library Journal readers.

"The Very Hungry Caterpillar" by Eric Carle is a beloved children's picture book that tells the story of a ravenous caterpillar's journey to transformation. The book begins with an egg laid on a leaf, which hatches into a tiny caterpillar that immediately displays an insatiable appetite. The caterpillar begins its culinary adventure by devouring various foods each day of the week, from apples on Monday to plums on Wednesday, through an assortment of colorful and appealing illustrations. However, the caterpillar still feels hungry. On Saturday, it indulges in a feast of different foods: cake, ice cream, pickle, cheese, salami, lollipop, pie, sausage, cupcake, and watermelon. Despite consuming an array of treats, the caterpillar still yearns for more. After the feast, the overindulged caterpillar experiences a stomach ache and decides to eat a green leaf on Sunday. Following this, it begins a transformative journey, building a cocoon around itself, symbolizing its entry into the pupa stage. After a period of rest and seclusion inside the cocoon, the caterpillar emerges as a beautiful butterfly, showcasing vibrant colors and delicate wings. The transformation from a simple, hungry caterpillar to a magnificent butterfly signifies growth, change, and the wonder of nature's life cycle. Carle's book captivates young readers with its engaging storyline, repetitive text, and vibrant collage-style illustrations. Beyond the delightful narrative, it also offers educational elements, teaching concepts such as counting, days of the week, basic food types, and the stages of a butterfly's life. "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" remains a cherished classic in children's literature for its charming storytelling, interactive elements, and the universal themes of growth and transformation, making it a timeless favorite among readers of all ages.