The very hungry caterpillar can eat nearly anyone out of house and home. As the caterpillar goes through its lifecycle towards the chrysalis stage, virtually everything under the sun finds its way into the caterpillar’s digestive tract.

On the healthy side, the very hungry caterpillar (which is not a worm) enjoys apples, pears, plums, strawberries, oranges, watermelon and leaves. On the not so healthy side, the very hungry caterpillar fills his belly with cake, ice cream, pickles, cheese, salami, lollipop, cherry pie, sausage, and a cupcake.

At the end of his feasting, the very hungry caterpillar ends up with a stomachache which does not surprise most readers. However, this small tidbit of amusement brings laughter to the littler readers or listeners of the tale daily.

In the end, the very hungry caterpillar builds his cocoon and ends up emerging a beautiful butterfly. The story is written by the popular children’s picture book author Eric Carle who has penned over 40 tales. These tales have been translated into several languages and are found throughout the world in book stores, homes, schools and libraries.

The success of Eric Carle’s books lies not only in the stories but in the artwork that accompanies them. The stories are engaging and information and the artwork keeps little eyes focused during story time.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a popular book that is available online and in bookstores. There is also an edition that comes with an audio CD so little readers can follow along on their own. This book is an excellent introduction to the world of caterpillars, the caterpillar lifecycle and the needs that need to be met in order for a caterpillar to become the beautiful butterflies that so many of us enjoy.

More information on this title and other Eric Carle books can be found at the official Eric Carle website (www.eric-carle.com).

Want to have some fun with one of the caterpillars’ closest cousins? Check out our worm lesson plans and worm recipes!