The Very Hungry Caterpillar, by Eric Carle

When you think of influential childhood authors, Theodor Seuss Geisel, Maurice Sendak, Roald Dahl, A A Milne, E B White and, of course, beloved author and illustrator Eric Carle, come to mind.

Carle, best known for his book The Very Hungry Caterpillar, which has sold nearly 55 million copies and translated into more than 62 languages, died aged 91 last Sunday.

Carle’s books have been passed down for generations and his illustrations and themes will likely live on for generations to come – that imagery and unforgettable colours forever pressed into the memories of those who cherish his work.

Throughout more than 70 published works (which sold more than 170 million copies) Carle’s aim was mostly to entertain – although his books have become a strong source for learning.

‘‘I do my best to simplify and refine, to be logical and harmonious. But I also try to keep an open mind, to listen to my intuition and allow for the unexpected, the coincidental, even the quirky to enter into my work. Ultimately, my aim is to entertain, and sometimes to enlighten, the child who still lives inside of me. This is always where I begin.’’

Children’s books can cover many topics and take many forms, but Carle’s books, for young minds, tells stories related to learning, growing and hope. The Very Hungry Caterpillar covers all those themes and is a timeless tale appealing to all cultures.

Carle’s books create an intimate interaction with writer and reader and work well when read aloud. His framing of voice and use of colour in his illustrations provide an incredible teaching tool and many children have learned to count, spell and understand colours by reading his books.

From some of his titles, Carle’s books represent a sense of simplicity, yet cover complex themes.

This is evident in books such as Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar was written in 1969. For a book to have influence over such a long period is a testament to an author who can forever relate to the human spirit and teach the young mind. We should be forever grateful for such an influence and voice.