The Genius behind the Caterpillar

One of the best-known children’s books today is ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar,’ translated into 62 different languages and it has sold over 46 million copies. But what do you know about the writer? Eric Carle is the inspirational writer of this well-loved book that has eaten its way into the hearts of millions of children all over the world. Since the Caterpillar was published in 1969, Eric Carle has illustrated more than 70 books and written many best sellers.

Born in Syracuse, New York, in 1929, Eric Carle moved with his parents to Germany when he was six years old. He graduated from the prestigious art school, the Akademie der bildenden Künste, in Stuttgart. However, his dream was always to return to America, the land of his happiest childhood memories. So, in 1952, with forty dollars in his pocket, he arrived in New York. He soon found a job as a graphic designer with The New York Times.