Module 1 Book Blog 1: The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Book Cover Image:

Book Summary:

This story follows the life cycle of a butterfly from egg to adult.  The main focus however, is on his time as a caterpillar.  As he is preparing for his time in his cocoon, he is a very hungry little creature.  He eats pretty much everything in sight from apples to pickles to sausage.  The caterpillar becomes so large and full that he must build himself a cocoon until he emerges as a beautiful butterfly.

APA Reference of Book:

Carle, E. (1969). The very hungry caterpillar. New York, NY.  Philomel Books.

Impressions:

This is a darling story that kids love for the colorful illustrations as well as the simple but endearing story line.  Readers will be attracted to the humor in the story as the caterpillar eats his way through several foods throughout the weeks.  They will particularly love all of the odd, non-stereotypical caterpillar foods, which he eats on Saturday.  The large, vivid butterfly at the end is something that will bring joy to readers as well.

Professional Review:

Books In Print Professional Reviews:

“Carle's classic tale of a voracious caterpillar who eats his way through the days of the week and then changes into a beautiful butterfly as been reissued in a sumptuous twenty-fifth anniversary edition. Horn Rating: Superior, well above average.” (Horne Book Guide)

“Children will be fascinated by the caterpillar's varied diet and miraculous transformation into a beautiful butterfly.” (School Library Journal)

Library Uses:

While this is a fictional story, this book would be of excellent use when teaching about life cycles.  The story follows a very simple outline of a life cycle that would be easy for children of all ages to understand.  Also, this could be used in an Eric Carle author/illustrator study.  He has such a tremendous impact on literature it would be wonderful for learners to study his works, especially this timeless classic.