You must have heard of The Very Hungry Caterpillar if you’re even remotely connected to the world of infants and toddlers. Well, you may have read it yourself as a child! Eric Carle’s classic tale of growth and change has struck a chord with children and parents alike, over the past 50 years.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

This is the story of a caterpillar who transforms into a butterfly. The mother butterfly lays an egg, and the caterpillar hatches on a Sunday. The book follows a week-long eating spree. Yes, there is a bit of junk food involved as well! After the escalating food rampage, a nice green leaf settles down the dietary upset! The caterpillar snuggles and nestles into a cocoon before of course, emerging into a beautiful butterfly.

One book, Many Lessons….The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Why has this formative piece of literature gripped the hearts of children and parents over fifty years? What is that endearing quality which is sure to take it through the hundred-year mark as well?

I think it has a lot to do with fusing educational concepts with a really fantastic story! Books for children are often sneaky ways to get them learn without them being aware of it of course! Think of the different concepts that a simple story like The Very Hungry Caterpillar brings forth to the child- the days of the week, colours, fruit names, junk food names, the importance of eating healthy, and above all the concept of metamorphosis! How many books for children can actually boast that kind of abundance of concepts?

This commemorative edition of the classic shown below, celebrates 50 years of the book.

But this ‘educational’ aspect of the book merges with beautiful illustrations and a very striking visual style. The book has holes on all the pages, and this makes it fun and memorable for the children. They can engage with this book in a very different manner.

There are also board books inspired by the original book. These include a touch and feel element as well, such as the book below.

For slightly older kids who enjoy doodling, books like the one below can combine old familiarity with newer explorations!

The Caterpillar reigns supreme…

The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a character that any child would instantly recognise. Here is a little round-up of some interesting accessories and items inspired by The Very Hungry Caterpillar.