The Very Hungry Caterpillar

by Eric Carle
The Very Hungry Caterpillar cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Children's Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 771
  • Added: 2025-09-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-10
  • ISBN: 9780141380933
  • Publisher: Puffin
  • Published: 2005-01-01
  • Formats: 143
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £7.99 Board book • £7.99–£30.00 Multiple items • £9.99 Multiple items, part(s) enclosed • £14.99
Bookshop
Format • £7.59–£9.98

Eric Carle's timeless tale of a very hungry caterpillar who eats his way through a variety of foods before transforming into a beautiful butterfly is brought to life in this special book and CD pack. The CD features two readings of the story, one with a simple narration and another with page-turn signals, making it an engaging experience for young listeners. /n/nEric Carle, an internationally acclaimed author and illustrator, shares his unique artistic vision in this story that has captivated generations of children. The book is part of a larger collection of Carle's works, which include other popular titles like 'Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?' and 'The Very Busy Spider'. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, opened in 2002, celebrates the art of picture books and is a testament to Carle's enduring legacy in children's literature.

Reviews
Kids Book Cafe · 2018-12-17
adored 4.50

The book is a must-read and must-have for young children, especially infants and toddlers. It is beloved for its simplicity and engaging illustrations.

This review highlights how The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a timeless favorite among young readers. The reviewer emphasizes its universal appeal and the joy it brings to children, particularly through its colorful and interactive design. The book's educational value and the way it captures the imagination of young minds are also praised. The reviewer believes it is an essential addition to any child's library, offering both entertainment and learning opportunities.

Quick quotes

    A must read and must have!

    The most favorite story of all times for young ones especially infants and toddlers.

    Its imaginative illustration and clever cut-out detail

The Great British Bookworm · 2017-08-02
loved 4.80

The book is simple, elegant, and bursting with life and vibrant colors. It is a beloved classic that captures the imagination of young readers.

This reviewer is thoroughly enchanted by The Very Hungry Caterpillar, praising its simplicity and elegance. They highlight the vibrant colors and the engaging design, which make the book a delight for young children. The reviewer also mentions the educational aspects, noting how the book can teach children about the natural world in an accessible and enjoyable way. Overall, they see it as a timeless classic that continues to captivate new generations of readers.

Quick quotes

    What is not to love about this story?

    It is simple, elegant, informative and each page bursts with life and vibrant colours

    a beloved classic that captures the imagination of young readers

Sipech Blog · 2015-04-01
mixed 3.20

The book is a mix of great joy and confusion, with an underlying social commentary that is hard to ignore. It offers moments of brilliance but can be muddled at times.

This review takes a more critical look at The Very Hungry Caterpillar, noting its complexity and the unexpected layers of meaning. The reviewer appreciates the moments of pure joy and the clever storytelling but also points out the confusion that can arise from the book's deeper messages. They see value in the social commentary embedded within the story, which adds a layer of depth that might not be immediately apparent to young readers.

Quick quotes

    It's a muddled work with moments of great joy and some utter confusion

    with an undercurrent of social commentary that cannot be avoided

    moments of brilliance

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