Eric Carle's The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a perennial favourite with children and adults alike. Its imaginative illustration and clever cut-out detail charts the progress of a very hungry caterpillar as he eats his way through the week.

This board book edition of what is surely a classic picture book is glossy, sturdy and ideal for curious little hands to get to grips with. (Ages 9 months to 2 years)--Susan Harrison

Hungry for the Caterpillar!, 14 Oct 2008
If you love reading to your child, do not miss this book.

It is a delightful, humourous,dream-like surreal book, with a repetitive, poetic, chanting story.

It is (deservedly) a children's classic. Many reviewers here have tried to break down the different elements of this book.

What I would like to convey is the whole experience of reading the book which teaches a simple life experience to a child - which is highly spiritual, particularly the last pages where a riot of colour is the world through the eyes of a butterfly.

The story has optimism and beauty at its very core.

It has limitless opportunities for teaching and conversation. There is a colouring book of the fantastic illustrations which can be bought - the video and CD features lovely music and a calm and peaceful narrator.

Tops my list for children and grown ups of all ages.

A Classic, 12 Oct 2008
Not only is this book fun for young hands, as it's perfectly sized and sturdy, it is also educational. Neither the young boy I got this for or his older brother would put this down for days. It went in the car, to nursery and even to bed

Yum!, 16 Sep 2008
An infamous short tale of the caterpillar that munches its way through the edible obstacles on each page, until it becomes a butterfly. Arguably the most famous of the Eric Carle short stories, The Hungry Caterpillar symbolises the journeys things take in the world in order to accomplish something great. Themes in this book include the virtue of patience and the fact that things can sometimes take a surprising turn.

`The Hungry Caterpillar' shows all the great hallmarks of a young children's book, in that it easily lends itself to the curriculum and is as simple as it is equally open to in-depth interpretation. Possibilities of further learning include additional studies of phonics, links with food technology (fruits and their properties) and Art lessons, which could include the replication of the story by building giant cardboard fruits and a willing pupil dressing up as the wriggly main character!

Thanks to its content, messages and style, this book is useful for readers from Reception to low attainment Year 2.

A true classic!, 14 Sep 2008
I was so happy when a friend gave me this when my now 13 month old was born, it reminded me so much of my childhood. I was even happier once he was big enough to start turning it's pages and poking his fingers in the holes and listening intently (well, not always!!) as I counted each different bit of food. He plays with it all the time and it is so hardwearing and virtually indestructible (unlike some other books I have purchsed!).

It's so amazing that a book I adored as a child, which I then read to my younger sister (well, more knowing it off by heart as I couldn't even read then!!) is now being adored by my son.

It's wonderful to know that there are still some sacred things left that haven't been replaced by a flashier, more plasticky version.

This is a definite must-buy for all little kids (and big kids too!).

Keeps them occupied, 15 Aug 2008
The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a great little book. It keeps my daughter occupied for hours on end. Just a quick flick through it is enough to convince any adult that a small child will like it. Simplistic, enjoyable and charming. And actually quite funny.
Well recommended for very small kids.

Hungry for the Caterpillar!, 14 Oct 2008
If you love reading to your child, do not miss this book.

It is a delightful, humourous,dream-like surreal book, with a repetitive, poetic, chanting story.

It is (deservedly) a children's classic. Many reviewers here have tried to break down the different elements of this book.

What I would like to convey is the whole experience of reading the book which teaches a simple life experience to a child - which is highly spiritual, particularly the last pages where a riot of colour is the world through the eyes of a butterfly.

The story has optimism and beauty at its very core.

It has limitless opportunities for teaching and conversation. There is a colouring book of the fantastic illustrations which can be bought - the video and CD features lovely music and a calm and peaceful narrator.

Tops my list for children and grown ups of all ages.

A Classic, 12 Oct 2008
Not only is this book fun for young hands, as it's perfectly sized and sturdy, it is also educational. Neither the young boy I got this for or his older brother would put this down for days. It went in the car, to nursery and even to bed

Yum!, 16 Sep 2008
An infamous short tale of the caterpillar that munches its way through the edible obstacles on each page, until it becomes a butterfly. Arguably the most famous of the Eric Carle short stories, The Hungry Caterpillar symbolises the journeys things take in the world in order to accomplish something great. Themes in this book include the virtue of patience and the fact that things can sometimes take a surprising turn.

`The Hungry Caterpillar' shows all the great hallmarks of a young children's book, in that it easily lends itself to the curriculum and is as simple as it is equally open to in-depth interpretation. Possibilities of further learning include additional studies of phonics, links with food technology (fruits and their properties) and Art lessons, which could include the replication of the story by building giant cardboard fruits and a willing pupil dressing up as the wriggly main character!

Thanks to its content, messages and style, this book is useful for readers from Reception to low attainment Year 2.

A true classic!, 14 Sep 2008
I was so happy when a friend gave me this when my now 13 month old was born, it reminded me so much of my childhood. I was even happier once he was big enough to start turning it's pages and poking his fingers in the holes and listening intently (well, not always!!) as I counted each different bit of food. He plays with it all the time and it is so hardwearing and virtually indestructible (unlike some other books I have purchsed!).

It's so amazing that a book I adored as a child, which I then read to my younger sister (well, more knowing it off by heart as I couldn't even read then!!) is now being adored by my son.

It's wonderful to know that there are still some sacred things left that haven't been replaced by a flashier, more plasticky version.

This is a definite must-buy for all little kids (and big kids too!).

Keeps them occupied, 15 Aug 2008
The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a great little book. It keeps my daughter occupied for hours on end. Just a quick flick through it is enough to convince any adult that a small child will like it. Simplistic, enjoyable and charming. And actually quite funny.
Well recommended for very small kids.

strange book, 17 Nov 2008
I bought the book for a present after reading all the great reviews. Found the story rather strange. And the ending that the woman dies is odd. Maybe that's English humour I don't get. The graphics are lovely though. I bought the hardbook and there was no CD, maybe hearing the song helps to enjoy the story more.

Perhaps she'll die?, 09 Oct 2008
I loved this book when I was little. I'm sure we had the paper version. But my 10 month old daughter now loves the indestructable board version. A must have.

Lovely, well-illustrated book, 03 Oct 2008
My toddler realy enjoys singing along, but I'm not sure he gets the significance of 'perhaps she'll die' - it's great fun, but it is irritating that each page shows both the new animal being introduced and the next one along - so that when I'm singing about the dog, the lad is shouting 'cow, daddy, look, cow'. But excellent for all that.

A childhood classic, 15 Sep 2008
A childhood favorite that I now share with my son. The imaginative book design with holes encourages interaction and is always stimulating. Any child who has been read this book at my house soon gets their own copy! Enjoy.

Brings back childhood memories, 31 Jul 2008
I love this book! I remember it from when I was a kid, (more than 30 years ago!) I have been searching for it for ages for my 3 year old son who loves books, and he loves it too. Not sure if it has changed over the years, but it's very much the same as I remember it to be.

Hungry for the Caterpillar!, 14 Oct 2008
If you love reading to your child, do not miss this book.

It is a delightful, humourous,dream-like surreal book, with a repetitive, poetic, chanting story.

It is (deservedly) a children's classic. Many reviewers here have tried to break down the different elements of this book.

What I would like to convey is the whole experience of reading the book which teaches a simple life experience to a child - which is highly spiritual, particularly the last pages where a riot of colour is the world through the eyes of a butterfly.

The story has optimism and beauty at its very core.

It has limitless opportunities for teaching and conversation. There is a colouring book of the fantastic illustrations which can be bought - the video and CD features lovely music and a calm and peaceful narrator.

Tops my list for children and grown ups of all ages.

A Classic, 12 Oct 2008
Not only is this book fun for young hands, as it's perfectly sized and sturdy, it is also educational. Neither the young boy I got this for or his older brother would put this down for days. It went in the car, to nursery and even to bed

Yum!, 16 Sep 2008
An infamous short tale of the caterpillar that munches its way through the edible obstacles on each page, until it becomes a butterfly. Arguably the most famous of the Eric Carle short stories, The Hungry Caterpillar symbolises the journeys things take in the world in order to accomplish something great. Themes in this book include the virtue of patience and the fact that things can sometimes take a surprising turn.

`The Hungry Caterpillar' shows all the great hallmarks of a young children's book, in that it easily lends itself to the curriculum and is as simple as it is equally open to in-depth interpretation. Possibilities of further learning include additional studies of phonics, links with food technology (fruits and their properties) and Art lessons, which could include the replication of the story by building giant cardboard fruits and a willing pupil dressing up as the wriggly main character!

Thanks to its content, messages and style, this book is useful for readers from Reception to low attainment Year 2.

A true classic!, 14 Sep 2008
I was so happy when a friend gave me this when my now 13 month old was born, it reminded me so much of my childhood. I was even happier once he was big enough to start turning it's pages and poking his fingers in the holes and listening intently (well, not always!!) as I counted each different bit of food. He plays with it all the time and it is so hardwearing and virtually indestructible (unlike some other books I have purchsed!).

It's so amazing that a book I adored as a child, which I then read to my younger sister (well, more knowing it off by heart as I couldn't even read then!!) is now being adored by my son.

It's wonderful to know that there are still some sacred things left that haven't been replaced by a flashier, more plasticky version.

This is a definite must-buy for all little kids (and big kids too!).

Keeps them occupied, 15 Aug 2008
The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a great little book. It keeps my daughter occupied for hours on end. Just a quick flick through it is enough to convince any adult that a small child will like it. Simplistic, enjoyable and charming. And actually quite funny.
Well recommended for very small kids.

strange book, 17 Nov 2008
I bought the book for a present after reading all the great reviews. Found the story rather strange. And the ending that the woman dies is odd. Maybe that's English humour I don't get. The graphics are lovely though. I bought the hardbook and there was no CD, maybe hearing the song helps to enjoy the story more.

Perhaps she'll die?, 09 Oct 2008
I loved this book when I was little. I'm sure we had the paper version. But my 10 month old daughter now loves the indestructable board version. A must have.

Lovely, well-illustrated book, 03 Oct 2008
My toddler realy enjoys singing along, but I'm not sure he gets the significance of 'perhaps she'll die' - it's great fun, but it is irritating that each page shows both the new animal being introduced and the next one along - so that when I'm singing about the dog, the lad is shouting 'cow, daddy, look, cow'. But excellent for all that.

A childhood classic, 15 Sep 2008
A childhood favorite that I now share with my son. The imaginative book design with holes encourages interaction and is always stimulating. Any child who has been read this book at my house soon gets their own copy! Enjoy.

Brings back childhood memories, 31 Jul 2008
I love this book! I remember it from when I was a kid, (more than 30 years ago!) I have been searching for it for ages for my 3 year old son who loves books, and he loves it too. Not sure if it has changed over the years, but it's very much the same as I remember it to be.

Great to look at, grab hold of or stuff in mouth!!, 26 Oct 2008
My little girl has been interested in these types of books from the age of 2 months (she also has a pets one) when she became fascinated by the pictures. She is now 4.5 months and still loves to look at the pictures (with a few sound effects from mum or dad!) or just grab the book and scrunch it up (it makes a crinkly noise) and put it in her mouth! It's very light so she can move it around easily. These kind of books aren't expensive and I reckon they're well worth the money.

Wonderful, 22 Oct 2008
Absolutely wonderful book which kept my little girl fascinated long enough in the early weeks for me to have a shower in peace. Her favourite page was the baby one and she would stare at it for ages. Very highly recommended and I have since bought one for a friend's baby.

fascinating!, 15 Oct 2008
I just recieved this book, and my baby of just 10 weeks was really enjoying gazing at the bold patterns which accompany the faces - she loves blace & white images and this book certainly grasped her attention, i hope to get lots of enjoyment out of it. Would definatley reccomend - and "pets" version also. The mirror is a nice touch, and i like the fact that it has a velcro loop so you can attatch it to a pram when they are a little older.

Perfect for very young babies, 09 Oct 2008
This perfect for very young babies. To an adult eye (or any child over maybe 6 months) it's something and nothing. BUT, let your baby decide. You'll see it's so very well suited to him/her. Six pages of simple faces or patterns that mesmerise very young babies. We used ours with our daughter from aged 4 weeks. We would just have it open were she could see it and she'd become calm and transfixed. The contrasts delight little babies. A fabulous value for money first book for the very small.

Perfect for very young babies, 09 Oct 2008
This perfect for very young babies. To an adult eye (or any child over maybe 6 months) it's something and nothing. BUT, let your baby decide. You'll see it's so very well suited to him/her. Six pages of simple faces or patterns that mesmerise very young babies. We used ours with our daughter from aged 4 weeks. We would just have it open were she could see it and she'd become calm and transfixed. The contrasts delight little babies. A fabulous value for money first book for the very small.

Hungry for the Caterpillar!, 14 Oct 2008
If you love reading to your child, do not miss this book.

It is a delightful, humourous,dream-like surreal book, with a repetitive, poetic, chanting story.

It is (deservedly) a children's classic. Many reviewers here have tried to break down the different elements of this book.

What I would like to convey is the whole experience of reading the book which teaches a simple life experience to a child - which is highly spiritual, particularly the last pages where a riot of colour is the world through the eyes of a butterfly.

The story has optimism and beauty at its very core.

It has limitless opportunities for teaching and conversation. There is a colouring book of the fantastic illustrations which can be bought - the video and CD features lovely music and a calm and peaceful narrator.

Tops my list for children and grown ups of all ages.

A Classic, 12 Oct 2008
Not only is this book fun for young hands, as it's perfectly sized and sturdy, it is also educational. Neither the young boy I got this for or his older brother would put this down for days. It went in the car, to nursery and even to bed

Yum!, 16 Sep 2008
An infamous short tale of the caterpillar that munches its way through the edible obstacles on each page, until it becomes a butterfly. Arguably the most famous of the Eric Carle short stories, The Hungry Caterpillar symbolises the journeys things take in the world in order to accomplish something great. Themes in this book include the virtue of patience and the fact that things can sometimes take a surprising turn.

`The Hungry Caterpillar' shows all the great hallmarks of a young children's book, in that it easily lends itself to the curriculum and is as simple as it is equally open to in-depth interpretation. Possibilities of further learning include additional studies of phonics, links with food technology (fruits and their properties) and Art lessons, which could include the replication of the story by building giant cardboard fruits and a willing pupil dressing up as the wriggly main character!

Thanks to its content, messages and style, this book is useful for readers from Reception to low attainment Year 2.

A true classic!, 14 Sep 2008
I was so happy when a friend gave me this when my now 13 month old was born, it reminded me so much of my childhood. I was even happier once he was big enough to start turning it's pages and poking his fingers in the holes and listening intently (well, not always!!) as I counted each different bit of food. He plays with it all the time and it is so hardwearing and virtually indestructible (unlike some other books I have purchsed!).

It's so amazing that a book I adored as a child, which I then read to my younger sister (well, more knowing it off by heart as I couldn't even read then!!) is now being adored by my son.

It's wonderful to know that there are still some sacred things left that haven't been replaced by a flashier, more plasticky version.

This is a definite must-buy for all little kids (and big kids too!).

Keeps them occupied, 15 Aug 2008
The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a great little book. It keeps my daughter occupied for hours on end. Just a quick flick through it is enough to convince any adult that a small child will like it. Simplistic, enjoyable and charming. And actually quite funny.
Well recommended for very small kids.

strange book, 17 Nov 2008
I bought the book for a present after reading all the great reviews. Found the story rather strange. And the ending that the woman dies is odd. Maybe that's English humour I don't get. The graphics are lovely though. I bought the hardbook and there was no CD, maybe hearing the song helps to enjoy the story more.

Perhaps she'll die?, 09 Oct 2008
I loved this book when I was little. I'm sure we had the paper version. But my 10 month old daughter now loves the indestructable board version. A must have.

Lovely, well-illustrated book, 03 Oct 2008
My toddler realy enjoys singing along, but I'm not sure he gets the significance of 'perhaps she'll die' - it's great fun, but it is irritating that each page shows both the new animal being introduced and the next one along - so that when I'm singing about the dog, the lad is shouting 'cow, daddy, look, cow'. But excellent for all that.

A childhood classic, 15 Sep 2008
A childhood favorite that I now share with my son. The imaginative book design with holes encourages interaction and is always stimulating. Any child who has been read this book at my house soon gets their own copy! Enjoy.

Brings back childhood memories, 31 Jul 2008
I love this book! I remember it from when I was a kid, (more than 30 years ago!) I have been searching for it for ages for my 3 year old son who loves books, and he loves it too. Not sure if it has changed over the years, but it's very much the same as I remember it to be.

Great to look at, grab hold of or stuff in mouth!!, 26 Oct 2008
My little girl has been interested in these types of books from the age of 2 months (she also has a pets one) when she became fascinated by the pictures. She is now 4.5 months and still loves to look at the pictures (with a few sound effects from mum or dad!) or just grab the book and scrunch it up (it makes a crinkly noise) and put it in her mouth! It's very light so she can move it around easily. These kind of books aren't expensive and I reckon they're well worth the money.

Wonderful, 22 Oct 2008
Absolutely wonderful book which kept my little girl fascinated long enough in the early weeks for me to have a shower in peace. Her favourite page was the baby one and she would stare at it for ages. Very highly recommended and I have since bought one for a friend's baby.

fascinating!, 15 Oct 2008
I just recieved this book, and my baby of just 10 weeks was really enjoying gazing at the bold patterns which accompany the faces - she loves blace & white images and this book certainly grasped her attention, i hope to get lots of enjoyment out of it. Would definatley reccomend - and "pets" version also. The mirror is a nice touch, and i like the fact that it has a velcro loop so you can attatch it to a pram when they are a little older.

Perfect for very young babies, 09 Oct 2008
This perfect for very young babies. To an adult eye (or any child over maybe 6 months) it's something and nothing. BUT, let your baby decide. You'll see it's so very well suited to him/her. Six pages of simple faces or patterns that mesmerise very young babies. We used ours with our daughter from aged 4 weeks. We would just have it open were she could see it and she'd become calm and transfixed. The contrasts delight little babies. A fabulous value for money first book for the very small.

Perfect for very young babies, 09 Oct 2008
This perfect for very young babies. To an adult eye (or any child over maybe 6 months) it's something and nothing. BUT, let your baby decide. You'll see it's so very well suited to him/her. Six pages of simple faces or patterns that mesmerise very young babies. We used ours with our daughter from aged 4 weeks. We would just have it open were she could see it and she'd become calm and transfixed. The contrasts delight little babies. A fabulous value for money first book for the very small.

Great colourful pictures , 23 Jun 2008
My son is only 5 months, but he loves looking at this book even if he doesn't understand the "story" yet - there are lots of bright colours and things to see in the pictures. I can see him enjoying it more and more as he gets older as we discuss the content of the pictures (people, animals, clowns, magicians...) My only problem is to stop my son from eating the book! The CD is a great bonus.

Entertaining!!, 19 Jun 2008
my son just loves this book and will sit for ages looking through each page as there is so much happening at every turn including the texture of the cut out sections....i would definately recommend it.

great book, 06 May 2008
My 17 month old has had this book for a while, and loves it.
It's great fun to sing through it with him, he loves turning the pages, and he always picks this book up if there's more than one choice in front of him.
A lovely, colourful, and fun book for all.

Great fun, 21 Mar 2008
It's great when a children's rhyme we all know is given a new lease of life. This book does this. Yes there is the bus, yes there are the wheels and all the rest, but there is so much going on in each picture and each picture is so full of colour and life, that my youngster never gets tired of the book.
That's the best recommendation I can give.

This book ROCKS, 13 Jan 2008
A major favourite with my 18 month old girl. She requests it about 10 times a day, sits on my lap and ROCKS - no other way to put it. She does the wipers with her arms flailing, sticks her little fingers through the holes to turn the pages and observes the well drawn detail of doggies, butterflies etc etc. Much recommended! But of course you can't just read it, you've got to sing it and do the actions/ baby signs too!

Hungry for the Caterpillar!, 14 Oct 2008
If you love reading to your child, do not miss this book.

It is a delightful, humourous,dream-like surreal book, with a repetitive, poetic, chanting story.

It is (deservedly) a children's classic. Many reviewers here have tried to break down the different elements of this book.

What I would like to convey is the whole experience of reading the book which teaches a simple life experience to a child - which is highly spiritual, particularly the last pages where a riot of colour is the world through the eyes of a butterfly.

The story has optimism and beauty at its very core.

It has limitless opportunities for teaching and conversation. There is a colouring book of the fantastic illustrations which can be bought - the video and CD features lovely music and a calm and peaceful narrator.

Tops my list for children and grown ups of all ages.

A Classic, 12 Oct 2008
Not only is this book fun for young hands, as it's perfectly sized and sturdy, it is also educational. Neither the young boy I got this for or his older brother would put this down for days. It went in the car, to nursery and even to bed

Yum!, 16 Sep 2008
An infamous short tale of the caterpillar that munches its way through the edible obstacles on each page, until it becomes a butterfly. Arguably the most famous of the Eric Carle short stories, The Hungry Caterpillar symbolises the journeys things take in the world in order to accomplish something great. Themes in this book include the virtue of patience and the fact that things can sometimes take a surprising turn.

`The Hungry Caterpillar' shows all the great hallmarks of a young children's book, in that it easily lends itself to the curriculum and is as simple as it is equally open to in-depth interpretation. Possibilities of further learning include additional studies of phonics, links with food technology (fruits and their properties) and Art lessons, which could include the replication of the story by building giant cardboard fruits and a willing pupil dressing up as the wriggly main character!

Thanks to its content, messages and style, this book is useful for readers from Reception to low attainment Year 2.

A true classic!, 14 Sep 2008
I was so happy when a friend gave me this when my now 13 month old was born, it reminded me so much of my childhood. I was even happier once he was big enough to start turning it's pages and poking his fingers in the holes and listening intently (well, not always!!) as I counted each different bit of food. He plays with it all the time and it is so hardwearing and virtually indestructible (unlike some other books I have purchsed!).

It's so amazing that a book I adored as a child, which I then read to my younger sister (well, more knowing it off by heart as I couldn't even read then!!) is now being adored by my son.

It's wonderful to know that there are still some sacred things left that haven't been replaced by a flashier, more plasticky version.

This is a definite must-buy for all little kids (and big kids too!).

Keeps them occupied, 15 Aug 2008
The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a great little book. It keeps my daughter occupied for hours on end. Just a quick flick through it is enough to convince any adult that a small child will like it. Simplistic, enjoyable and charming. And actually quite funny.
Well recommended for very small kids.

strange book, 17 Nov 2008
I bought the book for a present after reading all the great reviews. Found the story rather strange. And the ending that the woman dies is odd. Maybe that's English humour I don't get. The graphics are lovely though. I bought the hardbook and there was no CD, maybe hearing the song helps to enjoy the story more.

Perhaps she'll die?, 09 Oct 2008
I loved this book when I was little. I'm sure we had the paper version. But my 10 month old daughter now loves the indestructable board version. A must have.

Lovely, well-illustrated book, 03 Oct 2008
My toddler realy enjoys singing along, but I'm not sure he gets the significance of 'perhaps she'll die' - it's great fun, but it is irritating that each page shows both the new animal being introduced and the next one along - so that when I'm singing about the dog, the lad is shouting 'cow, daddy, look, cow'. But excellent for all that.

A childhood classic, 15 Sep 2008
A childhood favorite that I now share with my son. The imaginative book design with holes encourages interaction and is always stimulating. Any child who has been read this book at my house soon gets their own copy! Enjoy.

Brings back childhood memories, 31 Jul 2008
I love this book! I remember it from when I was a kid, (more than 30 years ago!) I have been searching for it for ages for my 3 year old son who loves books, and he loves it too. Not sure if it has changed over the years, but it's very much the same as I remember it to be.

Great to look at, grab hold of or stuff in mouth!!, 26 Oct 2008
My little girl has been interested in these types of books from the age of 2 months (she also has a pets one) when she became fascinated by the pictures. She is now 4.5 months and still loves to look at the pictures (with a few sound effects from mum or dad!) or just grab the book and scrunch it up (it makes a crinkly noise) and put it in her mouth! It's very light so she can move it around easily. These kind of books aren't expensive and I reckon they're well worth the money.

Wonderful, 22 Oct 2008
Absolutely wonderful book which kept my little girl fascinated long enough in the early weeks for me to have a shower in peace. Her favourite page was the baby one and she would stare at it for ages. Very highly recommended and I have since bought one for a friend's baby.

fascinating!, 15 Oct 2008
I just recieved this book, and my baby of just 10 weeks was really enjoying gazing at the bold patterns which accompany the faces - she loves blace & white images and this book certainly grasped her attention, i hope to get lots of enjoyment out of it. Would definatley reccomend - and "pets" version also. The mirror is a nice touch, and i like the fact that it has a velcro loop so you can attatch it to a pram when they are a little older.

Perfect for very young babies, 09 Oct 2008
This perfect for very young babies. To an adult eye (or any child over maybe 6 months) it's something and nothing. BUT, let your baby decide. You'll see it's so very well suited to him/her. Six pages of simple faces or patterns that mesmerise very young babies. We used ours with our daughter from aged 4 weeks. We would just have it open were she could see it and she'd become calm and transfixed. The contrasts delight little babies. A fabulous value for money first book for the very small.

Perfect for very young babies, 09 Oct 2008
This perfect for very young babies. To an adult eye (or any child over maybe 6 months) it's something and nothing. BUT, let your baby decide. You'll see it's so very well suited to him/her. Six pages of simple faces or patterns that mesmerise very young babies. We used ours with our daughter from aged 4 weeks. We would just have it open were she could see it and she'd become calm and transfixed. The contrasts delight little babies. A fabulous value for money first book for the very small.

Great colourful pictures , 23 Jun 2008
My son is only 5 months, but he loves looking at this book even if he doesn't understand the "story" yet - there are lots of bright colours and things to see in the pictures. I can see him enjoying it more and more as he gets older as we discuss the content of the pictures (people, animals, clowns, magicians...) My only problem is to stop my son from eating the book! The CD is a great bonus.

Entertaining!!, 19 Jun 2008
my son just loves this book and will sit for ages looking through each page as there is so much happening at every turn including the texture of the cut out sections....i would definately recommend it.

great book, 06 May 2008
My 17 month old has had this book for a while, and loves it.
It's great fun to sing through it with him, he loves turning the pages, and he always picks this book up if there's more than one choice in front of him.
A lovely, colourful, and fun book for all.

Great fun, 21 Mar 2008
It's great when a children's rhyme we all know is given a new lease of life. This book does this. Yes there is the bus, yes there are the wheels and all the rest, but there is so much going on in each picture and each picture is so full of colour and life, that my youngster never gets tired of the book.
That's the best recommendation I can give.

This book ROCKS, 13 Jan 2008
A major favourite with my 18 month old girl. She requests it about 10 times a day, sits on my lap and ROCKS - no other way to put it. She does the wipers with her arms flailing, sticks her little fingers through the holes to turn the pages and observes the well drawn detail of doggies, butterflies etc etc. Much recommended! But of course you can't just read it, you've got to sing it and do the actions/ baby signs too!

Perfect to introduce them to books!, 29 Nov 2008
A wonderful little book. Has lift the flaps so the little ones can interact whilst you're reading the story. A simple story, but kept both my girls entertained again and again. They never seem to get bored of it. Solid and sturdy - excellent for toddlers and babies a like. You won't be disappointed.

basic but well loved, 28 Aug 2008
My 15 month old boy loves this book mainly because he loves opening flaps! We vary between this and the 'Where's Spot' book (where the flaps are easier to spot). He never seems to tire of them!

Interactive Story, 08 Aug 2008
This book is wonderful with lift up flaps and a simple story which delighted my son as a toddler. Even now we like to look at the book and lift the flaps. I would recommend this book to any toddler, its wonderful.

My son's first and favourite, 18 Mar 2008
I first heard the story told on Cbeebies story time. I re-enacted it much to my son's amusement and we bought the book at the earliest opportunity. Its a great book with a simply premise- several pets are sent by the zoo and all are unsuitable until the last one "he was perfect. I kept him". Its a lift the flap book with just enough text to keep their attention on each page. The illustrations are simple and bold and the book presents opportunities to talk about proportions and appearances and of course, to make funny animal noises. My son, in his enthusiasm, has wrecked the first one we bought him and we are going to have to buy a new one. That's how much he loves it. Since this book, he has really learnt to enjoy books as a one to one activity with me, which makes me really happy.

Excellent. , 11 Dec 2007
This was a book given to my daughter for her first birthday. It was a favourite for a long time and has done a lot for promoting her language development. The pictures are lovely. The book is sturdy and unlike some flap books, they do not easily pull off.

"Each Peach Pear Plum. I spy Tom Thumb!" In this engaging, interactive book for the very young, familiar nursery-rhyme characters such as Mother Hubbard and Baby Bunting sneak their way into the gentle drawings. Even young children who might not know all the fairy-tale stars can find them lurking in the cupboard, on the stairs or deep in the woods. In the happy finale, the whole cast meets up for plum pie in the sun, where the little one on your lap will gleefully find everyone.

Hungry for the Caterpillar!, 14 Oct 2008
If you love reading to your child, do not miss this book.

It is a delightful, humourous,dream-like surreal book, with a repetitive, poetic, chanting story.

It is (deservedly) a children's classic. Many reviewers here have tried to break down the different elements of this book.

What I would like to convey is the whole experience of reading the book which teaches a simple life experience to a child - which is highly spiritual, particularly the last pages where a riot of colour is the world through the eyes of a butterfly.

The story has optimism and beauty at its very core.

It has limitless opportunities for teaching and conversation. There is a colouring book of the fantastic illustrations which can be bought - the video and CD features lovely music and a calm and peaceful narrator.

Tops my list for children and grown ups of all ages.

A Classic, 12 Oct 2008
Not only is this book fun for young hands, as it's perfectly sized and sturdy, it is also educational. Neither the young boy I got this for or his older brother would put this down for days. It went in the car, to nursery and even to bed

Yum!, 16 Sep 2008
An infamous short tale of the caterpillar that munches its way through the edible obstacles on each page, until it becomes a butterfly. Arguably the most famous of the Eric Carle short stories, The Hungry Caterpillar symbolises the journeys things take in the world in order to accomplish something great. Themes in this book include the virtue of patience and the fact that things can sometimes take a surprising turn.

`The Hungry Caterpillar' shows all the great hallmarks of a young children's book, in that it easily lends itself to the curriculum and is as simple as it is equally open to in-depth interpretation. Possibilities of further learning include additional studies of phonics, links with food technology (fruits and their properties) and Art lessons, which could include the replication of the story by building giant cardboard fruits and a willing pupil dressing up as the wriggly main character!

Thanks to its content, messages and style, this book is useful for readers from Reception to low attainment Year 2.

A true classic!, 14 Sep 2008
I was so happy when a friend gave me this when my now 13 month old was born, it reminded me so much of my childhood. I was even happier once he was big enough to start turning it's pages and poking his fingers in the holes and listening intently (well, not always!!) as I counted each different bit of food. He plays with it all the time and it is so hardwearing and virtually indestructible (unlike some other books I have purchsed!).

It's so amazing that a book I adored as a child, which I then read to my younger sister (well, more knowing it off by heart as I couldn't even read then!!) is now being adored by my son.

It's wonderful to know that there are still some sacred things left that haven't been replaced by a flashier, more plasticky version.

This is a definite must-buy for all little kids (and big kids too!).

Keeps them occupied, 15 Aug 2008
The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a great little book. It keeps my daughter occupied for hours on end. Just a quick flick through it is enough to convince any adult that a small child will like it. Simplistic, enjoyable and charming. And actually quite funny.
Well recommended for very small kids.

strange book, 17 Nov 2008
I bought the book for a present after reading all the great reviews. Found the story rather strange. And the ending that the woman dies is odd. Maybe that's English humour I don't get. The graphics are lovely though. I bought the hardbook and there was no CD, maybe hearing the song helps to enjoy the story more.

Perhaps she'll die?, 09 Oct 2008
I loved this book when I was little. I'm sure we had the paper version. But my 10 month old daughter now loves the indestructable board version. A must have.

Lovely, well-illustrated book, 03 Oct 2008
My toddler realy enjoys singing along, but I'm not sure he gets the significance of 'perhaps she'll die' - it's great fun, but it is irritating that each page shows both the new animal being introduced and the next one along - so that when I'm singing about the dog, the lad is shouting 'cow, daddy, look, cow'. But excellent for all that.

A childhood classic, 15 Sep 2008
A childhood favorite that I now share with my son. The imaginative book design with holes encourages interaction and is always stimulating. Any child who has been read this book at my house soon gets their own copy! Enjoy.

Brings back childhood memories, 31 Jul 2008
I love this book! I remember it from when I was a kid, (more than 30 years ago!) I have been searching for it for ages for my 3 year old son who loves books, and he loves it too. Not sure if it has changed over the years, but it's very much the same as I remember it to be.

Great to look at, grab hold of or stuff in mouth!!, 26 Oct 2008
My little girl has been interested in these types of books from the age of 2 months (she also has a pets one) when she became fascinated by the pictures. She is now 4.5 months and still loves to look at the pictures (with a few sound effects from mum or dad!) or just grab the book and scrunch it up (it makes a crinkly noise) and put it in her mouth! It's very light so she can move it around easily. These kind of books aren't expensive and I reckon they're well worth the money.

Wonderful, 22 Oct 2008
Absolutely wonderful book which kept my little girl fascinated long enough in the early weeks for me to have a shower in peace. Her favourite page was the baby one and she would stare at it for ages. Very highly recommended and I have since bought one for a friend's baby.

fascinating!, 15 Oct 2008
I just recieved this book, and my baby of just 10 weeks was really enjoying gazing at the bold patterns which accompany the faces - she loves blace & white images and this book certainly grasped her attention, i hope to get lots of enjoyment out of it. Would definatley reccomend - and "pets" version also. The mirror is a nice touch, and i like the fact that it has a velcro loop so you can attatch it to a pram when they are a little older.

Perfect for very young babies, 09 Oct 2008
This perfect for very young babies. To an adult eye (or any child over maybe 6 months) it's something and nothing. BUT, let your baby decide. You'll see it's so very well suited to him/her. Six pages of simple faces or patterns that mesmerise very young babies. We used ours with our daughter from aged 4 weeks. We would just have it open were she could see it and she'd become calm and transfixed. The contrasts delight little babies. A fabulous value for money first book for the very small.

Perfect for very young babies, 09 Oct 2008
This perfect for very young babies. To an adult eye (or any child over maybe 6 months) it's something and nothing. BUT, let your baby decide. You'll see it's so very well suited to him/her. Six pages of simple faces or patterns that mesmerise very young babies. We used ours with our daughter from aged 4 weeks. We would just have it open were she could see it and she'd become calm and transfixed. The contrasts delight little babies. A fabulous value for money first book for the very small.

Great colourful pictures , 23 Jun 2008
My son is only 5 months, but he loves looking at this book even if he doesn't understand the "story" yet - there are lots of bright colours and things to see in the pictures. I can see him enjoying it more and more as he gets older as we discuss the content of the pictures (people, animals, clowns, magicians...) My only problem is to stop my son from eating the book! The CD is a great bonus.

Entertaining!!, 19 Jun 2008
my son just loves this book and will sit for ages looking through each page as there is so much happening at every turn including the texture of the cut out sections....i would definately recommend it.

great book, 06 May 2008
My 17 month old has had this book for a while, and loves it.
It's great fun to sing through it with him, he loves turning the pages, and he always picks this book up if there's more than one choice in front of him.
A lovely, colourful, and fun book for all.

Great fun, 21 Mar 2008
It's great when a children's rhyme we all know is given a new lease of life. This book does this. Yes there is the bus, yes there are the wheels and all the rest, but there is so much going on in each picture and each picture is so full of colour and life, that my youngster never gets tired of the book.
That's the best recommendation I can give.

This book ROCKS, 13 Jan 2008
A major favourite with my 18 month old girl. She requests it about 10 times a day, sits on my lap and ROCKS - no other way to put it. She does the wipers with her arms flailing, sticks her little fingers through the holes to turn the pages and observes the well drawn detail of doggies, butterflies etc etc. Much recommended! But of course you can't just read it, you've got to sing it and do the actions/ baby signs too!

Perfect to introduce them to books!, 29 Nov 2008
A wonderful little book. Has lift the flaps so the little ones can interact whilst you're reading the story. A simple story, but kept both my girls entertained again and again. They never seem to get bored of it. Solid and sturdy - excellent for toddlers and babies a like. You won't be disappointed.

basic but well loved, 28 Aug 2008
My 15 month old boy loves this book mainly because he loves opening flaps! We vary between this and the 'Where's Spot' book (where the flaps are easier to spot). He never seems to tire of them!

Interactive Story, 08 Aug 2008
This book is wonderful with lift up flaps and a simple story which delighted my son as a toddler. Even now we like to look at the book and lift the flaps. I would recommend this book to any toddler, its wonderful.

My son's first and favourite, 18 Mar 2008
I first heard the story told on Cbeebies story time. I re-enacted it much to my son's amusement and we bought the book at the earliest opportunity. Its a great book with a simply premise- several pets are sent by the zoo and all are unsuitable until the last one "he was perfect. I kept him". Its a lift the flap book with just enough text to keep their attention on each page. The illustrations are simple and bold and the book presents opportunities to talk about proportions and appearances and of course, to make funny animal noises. My son, in his enthusiasm, has wrecked the first one we bought him and we are going to have to buy a new one. That's how much he loves it. Since this book, he has really learnt to enjoy books as a one to one activity with me, which makes me really happy.

Excellent. , 11 Dec 2007
This was a book given to my daughter for her first birthday. It was a favourite for a long time and has done a lot for promoting her language development. The pictures are lovely. The book is sturdy and unlike some flap books, they do not easily pull off.

A favourite!, 06 Nov 2008
My son has just turned 2 and this book has been a favourite for a few months. He enjoys looking for the 'hidden' characters and the reference to nursery rhyme characters etc.

A classic, 28 Oct 2008
Both me and me toddler adore this book. Lovely pictures that provide excellent hide and seek involvement for toddlers, and sing song narrative that will engage and delight babies and toddlers alike. Peepo is also a gem - the Ahlbergs are genius!

Lovely and gentle, 03 Aug 2008
Such a lovely board book and in my opinion it's perfect for babies and toddlers of any age really.
It's especially good for reading before a daytime nap (or any winding down time) as the beautiful rhymes and gentle illustrations can be quite soothing.
My 2 year old daughter loves it and I highly recommend it.
Buy it and you'll soon see...it will come out from the bookshelf time and time again.


amazing book let down by presentation, 26 Jan 2008
As all the other reviews say, this is an out and out classic children's book - a must have.
This copy, however, is dreadful. The paper is thin and overly glossy, making it difficult to get to the next page and it could do with being bigger as it's really all about the pictures. I bought where the wild things are at the same time and that is amazingly presented, highlighting the problem with this further. This seems like a pamphlet or concert programme - cheap.
Save money and get the board book. It's smaller but the pictures are sharper.

Charming, 14 Sep 2007
What a perfectly charming book. Children love the bouncy rhyme and they recognise many famous characters such as tom thumb and cinderella. Statistics show that if a child is not interested in a reading by the time they are 7 they never will be. This is a brilliant introduction to literature!

Hungry for the Caterpillar!, 14 Oct 2008
If you love reading to your child, do not miss this book.

It is a delightful, humourous,dream-like surreal book, with a repetitive, poetic, chanting story.

It is (deservedly) a children's classic. Many reviewers here have tried to break down the different elements of this book.

What I would like to convey is the whole experience of reading the book which teaches a simple life experience to a child - which is highly spiritual, particularly the last pages where a riot of colour is the world through the eyes of a butterfly.

The story has optimism and beauty at its very core.

It has limitless opportunities for teaching and conversation. There is a colouring book of the fantastic illustrations which can be bought - the video and CD features lovely music and a calm and peaceful narrator.

Tops my list for children and grown ups of all ages.

A Classic, 12 Oct 2008
Not only is this book fun for young hands, as it's perfectly sized and sturdy, it is also educational. Neither the young boy I got this for or his older brother would put this down for days. It went in the car, to nursery and even to bed

Yum!, 16 Sep 2008
An infamous short tale of the caterpillar that munches its way through the edible obstacles on each page, until it becomes a butterfly. Arguably the most famous of the Eric Carle short stories, The Hungry Caterpillar symbolises the journeys things take in the world in order to accomplish something great. Themes in this book include the virtue of patience and the fact that things can sometimes take a surprising turn.

`The Hungry Caterpillar' shows all the great hallmarks of a young children's book, in that it easily lends itself to the curriculum and is as simple as it is equally open to in-depth interpretation. Possibilities of further learning include additional studies of phonics, links with food technology (fruits and their properties) and Art lessons, which could include the replication of the story by building giant cardboard fruits and a willing pupil dressing up as the wriggly main character!

Thanks to its content, messages and style, this book is useful for readers from Reception to low attainment Year 2.

A true classic!, 14 Sep 2008
I was so happy when a friend gave me this when my now 13 month old was born, it reminded me so much of my childhood. I was even happier once he was big enough to start turning it's pages and poking his fingers in the holes and listening intently (well, not always!!) as I counted each different bit of food. He plays with it all the time and it is so hardwearing and virtually indestructible (unlike some other books I have purchsed!).

It's so amazing that a book I adored as a child, which I then read to my younger sister (well, more knowing it off by heart as I couldn't even read then!!) is now being adored by my son.

It's wonderful to know that there are still some sacred things left that haven't been replaced by a flashier, more plasticky version.

This is a definite must-buy for all little kids (and big kids too!).

Keeps them occupied, 15 Aug 2008
The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a great little book. It keeps my daughter occupied for hours on end. Just a quick flick through it is enough to convince any adult that a small child will like it. Simplistic, enjoyable and charming. And actually quite funny.
Well recommended for very small kids.

strange book, 17 Nov 2008
I bought the book for a present after reading all the great reviews. Found the story rather strange. And the ending that the woman dies is odd. Maybe that's English humour I don't get. The graphics are lovely though. I bought the hardbook and there was no CD, maybe hearing the song helps to enjoy the story more.

Perhaps she'll die?, 09 Oct 2008
I loved this book when I was little. I'm sure we had the paper version. But my 10 month old daughter now loves the indestructable board version. A must have.

Lovely, well-illustrated book, 03 Oct 2008
My toddler realy enjoys singing along, but I'm not sure he gets the significance of 'perhaps she'll die' - it's great fun, but it is irritating that each page shows both the new animal being introduced and the next one along - so that when I'm singing about the dog, the lad is shouting 'cow, daddy, look, cow'. But excellent for all that.

A childhood classic, 15 Sep 2008
A childhood favorite that I now share with my son. The imaginative book design with holes encourages interaction and is always stimulating. Any child who has been read this book at my house soon gets their own copy! Enjoy.

Brings back childhood memories, 31 Jul 2008
I love this book! I remember it from when I was a kid, (more than 30 years ago!) I have been searching for it for ages for my 3 year old son who loves books, and he loves it too. Not sure if it has changed over the years, but it's very much the same as I remember it to be.

Great to look at, grab hold of or stuff in mouth!!, 26 Oct 2008
My little girl has been interested in these types of books from the age of 2 months (she also has a pets one) when she became fascinated by the pictures. She is now 4.5 months and still loves to look at the pictures (with a few sound effects from mum or dad!) or just grab the book and scrunch it up (it makes a crinkly noise) and put it in her mouth! It's very light so she can move it around easily. These kind of books aren't expensive and I reckon they're well worth the money.

Wonderful, 22 Oct 2008
Absolutely wonderful book which kept my little girl fascinated long enough in the early weeks for me to have a shower in peace. Her favourite page was the baby one and she would stare at it for ages. Very highly recommended and I have since bought one for a friend's baby.

fascinating!, 15 Oct 2008
I just recieved this book, and my baby of just 10 weeks was really enjoying gazing at the bold patterns which accompany the faces - she loves blace & white images and this book certainly grasped her attention, i hope to get lots of enjoyment out of it. Would definatley reccomend - and "pets" version also. The mirror is a nice touch, and i like the fact that it has a velcro loop so you can attatch it to a pram when they are a little older.

Perfect for very young babies, 09 Oct 2008
This perfect for very young babies. To an adult eye (or any child over maybe 6 months) it's something and nothing. BUT, let your baby decide. You'll see it's so very well suited to him/her. Six pages of simple faces or patterns that mesmerise very young babies. We used ours with our daughter from aged 4 weeks. We would just have it open were she could see it and she'd become calm and transfixed. The contrasts delight little babies. A fabulous value for money first book for the very small.

Perfect for very young babies, 09 Oct 2008
This perfect for very young babies. To an adult eye (or any child over maybe 6 months) it's something and nothing. BUT, let your baby decide. You'll see it's so very well suited to him/her. Six pages of simple faces or patterns that mesmerise very young babies. We used ours with our daughter from aged 4 weeks. We would just have it open were she could see it and she'd become calm and transfixed. The contrasts delight little babies. A fabulous value for money first book for the very small.

Great colourful pictures , 23 Jun 2008
My son is only 5 months, but he loves looking at this book even if he doesn't understand the "story" yet - there are lots of bright colours and things to see in the pictures. I can see him enjoying it more and more as he gets older as we discuss the content of the pictures (people, animals, clowns, magicians...) My only problem is to stop my son from eating the book! The CD is a great bonus.

Entertaining!!, 19 Jun 2008
my son just loves this book and will sit for ages looking through each page as there is so much happening at every turn including the texture of the cut out sections....i would definately recommend it.

great book, 06 May 2008
My 17 month old has had this book for a while, and loves it.
It's great fun to sing through it with him, he loves turning the pages, and he always picks this book up if there's more than one choice in front of him.
A lovely, colourful, and fun book for all.

Great fun, 21 Mar 2008
It's great when a children's rhyme we all know is given a new lease of life. This book does this. Yes there is the bus, yes there are the wheels and all the rest, but there is so much going on in each picture and each picture is so full of colour and life, that my youngster never gets tired of the book.
That's the best recommendation I can give.

This book ROCKS, 13 Jan 2008
A major favourite with my 18 month old girl. She requests it about 10 times a day, sits on my lap and ROCKS - no other way to put it. She does the wipers with her arms flailing, sticks her little fingers through the holes to turn the pages and observes the well drawn detail of doggies, butterflies etc etc. Much recommended! But of course you can't just read it, you've got to sing it and do the actions/ baby signs too!

Perfect to introduce them to books!, 29 Nov 2008
A wonderful little book. Has lift the flaps so the little ones can interact whilst you're reading the story. A simple story, but kept both my girls entertained again and again. They never seem to get bored of it. Solid and sturdy - excellent for toddlers and babies a like. You won't be disappointed.

basic but well loved, 28 Aug 2008
My 15 month old boy loves this book mainly because he loves opening flaps! We vary between this and the 'Where's Spot' book (where the flaps are easier to spot). He never seems to tire of them!

Interactive Story, 08 Aug 2008
This book is wonderful with lift up flaps and a simple story which delighted my son as a toddler. Even now we like to look at the book and lift the flaps. I would recommend this book to any toddler, its wonderful.

My son's first and favourite, 18 Mar 2008
I first heard the story told on Cbeebies story time. I re-enacted it much to my son's amusement and we bought the book at the earliest opportunity. Its a great book with a simply premise- several pets are sent by the zoo and all are unsuitable until the last one "he was perfect. I kept him". Its a lift the flap book with just enough text to keep their attention on each page. The illustrations are simple and bold and the book presents opportunities to talk about proportions and appearances and of course, to make funny animal noises. My son, in his enthusiasm, has wrecked the first one we bought him and we are going to have to buy a new one. That's how much he loves it. Since this book, he has really learnt to enjoy books as a one to one activity with me, which makes me really happy.

Excellent. , 11 Dec 2007
This was a book given to my daughter for her first birthday. It was a favourite for a long time and has done a lot for promoting her language development. The pictures are lovely. The book is sturdy and unlike some flap books, they do not easily pull off.

A favourite!, 06 Nov 2008
My son has just turned 2 and this book has been a favourite for a few months. He enjoys looking for the 'hidden' characters and the reference to nursery rhyme characters etc.

A classic, 28 Oct 2008
Both me and me toddler adore this book. Lovely pictures that provide excellent hide and seek involvement for toddlers, and sing song narrative that will engage and delight babies and toddlers alike. Peepo is also a gem - the Ahlbergs are genius!

Lovely and gentle, 03 Aug 2008
Such a lovely board book and in my opinion it's perfect for babies and toddlers of any age really.
It's especially good for reading before a daytime nap (or any winding down time) as the beautiful rhymes and gentle illustrations can be quite soothing.
My 2 year old daughter loves it and I highly recommend it.
Buy it and you'll soon see...it will come out from the bookshelf time and time again.


amazing book let down by presentation, 26 Jan 2008
As all the other reviews say, this is an out and out classic children's book - a must have.
This copy, however, is dreadful. The paper is thin and overly glossy, making it difficult to get to the next page and it could do with being bigger as it's really all about the pictures. I bought where the wild things are at the same time and that is amazingly presented, highlighting the problem with this further. This seems like a pamphlet or concert programme - cheap.
Save money and get the board book. It's smaller but the pictures are sharper.

Charming, 14 Sep 2007
What a perfectly charming book. Children love the bouncy rhyme and they recognise many famous characters such as tom thumb and cinderella. Statistics show that if a child is not interested in a reading by the time they are 7 they never will be. This is a brilliant introduction to literature!

What a jolly good read!, 14 Jul 2007
I thought that the Jolly Postman couldn't be beaten, but this wins hands down. Absolutely brilliant read, great rhymes, 'interactive' in the sense that the children get to open the letters themselves. Recommended without a doubt. My children love it!

Nice, but just milking the original really., 26 Feb 2007
This book has lots of lovely little envelopes to explore, with lots of lovely little letters, advertising fliers, cards etc in. It is undeniably beautiful, if a little delicate for little hands.
The only problem them I have with it is an incredible feeling of "been there done that".
The Jolly postman was fresh and exciting, this is just using the same idea over again.]
Relying so heavily on Christams as the theme also means that this book is limited to when it gets read, most people are really sick of Christmas by mid January (by most people I mean adults, the person usually required to read the story).
A nice book but don't bother if you already own the jolly postman, you just don't need two books so alike.


A true delight!, 10 Nov 2004
This a truly wonderful book, with a great little novelty items in each envelope. The Humpty jigsaw puzzle is my 3year old's favourite. Every page has fabulous illustrations, as you would expect from Janet Ahlberg, with loads of detail - just the sort that children love to pour over. My nearly 6year old daughter also still loves it. Highly recommended!!!

charming and fun book, 08 Nov 2003
I bought this book last year for my three year old niece who loves me reading to her. She asks for this book over and over and knows it by heart she always puts all the inserts back very carefully so as not to lose them and often we find her simply amusing herself by looking at the beautiful illustrations. The best christmas book she has had so far.

The Jolly Christmas Postman, 06 Apr 2003
This book was actually bought as a Christmas present, but as fans of Janet and Allan Ahlberg and especially The Jolly Postman, we sneaked a peek {or two}before wrapping it up.
Not quite as funny as The Jolly Postman which is exceptionally entertaining for children and adults alike, The Jolly Christmas Postman is still a very good children's book and one they will ask for again and again. I would say it has appeal to a large age range from as young as 2-3years literally to adult, its one of those books you do actually enjoy reading, makes bedtime effortless!

Hungry for the Caterpillar!, 14 Oct 2008
If you love reading to your child, do not miss this book.

It is a delightful, humourous,dream-like surreal book, with a repetitive, poetic, chanting story.

It is (deservedly) a children's classic. Many reviewers here have tried to break down the different elements of this book.

What I would like to convey is the whole experience of reading the book which teaches a simple life experience to a child - which is highly spiritual, particularly the last pages where a riot of colour is the world through the eyes of a butterfly.

The story has optimism and beauty at its very core.

It has limitless opportunities for teaching and conversation. There is a colouring book of the fantastic illustrations which can be bought - the video and CD features lovely music and a calm and peaceful narrator.

Tops my list for children and grown ups of all ages.

A Classic, 12 Oct 2008
Not only is this book fun for young hands, as it's perfectly sized and sturdy, it is also educational. Neither the young boy I got this for or his older brother would put this down for days. It went in the car, to nursery and even to bed

Yum!, 16 Sep 2008
An infamous short tale of the caterpillar that munches its way through the edible obstacles on each page, until it becomes a butterfly. Arguably the most famous of the Eric Carle short stories, The Hungry Caterpillar symbolises the journeys things take in the world in order to accomplish something great. Themes in this book include the virtue of patience and the fact that things can sometimes take a surprising turn.

`The Hungry Caterpillar' shows all the great hallmarks of a young children's book, in that it easily lends itself to the curriculum and is as simple as it is equally open to in-depth interpretation. Possibilities of further learning include additional studies of phonics, links with food technology (fruits and their properties) and Art lessons, which could include the replication of the story by building giant cardboard fruits and a willing pupil dressing up as the wriggly main character!

Thanks to its content, messages and style, this book is useful for readers from Reception to low attainment Year 2.

A true classic!, 14 Sep 2008
I was so happy when a friend gave me this when my now 13 month old was born, it reminded me so much of my childhood. I was even happier once he was big enough to start turning it's pages and poking his fingers in the holes and listening intently (well, not always!!) as I counted each different bit of food. He plays with it all the time and it is so hardwearing and virtually indestructible (unlike some other books I have purchsed!).

It's so amazing that a book I adored as a child, which I then read to my younger sister (well, more knowing it off by heart as I couldn't even read then!!) is now being adored by my son.

It's wonderful to know that there are still some sacred things left that haven't been replaced by a flashier, more plasticky version.

This is a definite must-buy for all little kids (and big kids too!).

Keeps them occupied, 15 Aug 2008
The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a great little book. It keeps my daughter occupied for hours on end. Just a quick flick through it is enough to convince any adult that a small child will like it. Simplistic, enjoyable and charming. And actually quite funny.
Well recommended for very small kids.

strange book, 17 Nov 2008
I bought the book for a present after reading all the great reviews. Found the story rather strange. And the ending that the woman dies is odd. Maybe that's English humour I don't get. The graphics are lovely though. I bought the hardbook and there was no CD, maybe hearing the song helps to enjoy the story more.

Perhaps she'll die?, 09 Oct 2008
I loved this book when I was little. I'm sure we had the paper version. But my 10 month old daughter now loves the indestructable board version. A must have.

Lovely, well-illustrated book, 03 Oct 2008
My toddler realy enjoys singing along, but I'm not sure he gets the significance of 'perhaps she'll die' - it's great fun, but it is irritating that each page shows both the new animal being introduced and the next one along - so that when I'm singing about the dog, the lad is shouting 'cow, daddy, look, cow'. But excellent for all that.

A childhood classic, 15 Sep 2008
A childhood favorite that I now share with my son. The imaginative book design with holes encourages interaction and is always stimulating. Any child who has been read this book at my house soon gets their own copy! Enjoy.

Brings back childhood memories, 31 Jul 2008
I love this book! I remember it from when I was a kid, (more than 30 years ago!) I have been searching for it for ages for my 3 year old son who loves books, and he loves it too. Not sure if it has changed over the years, but it's very much the same as I remember it to be.

Great to look at, grab hold of or stuff in mouth!!, 26 Oct 2008
My little girl has been interested in these types of books from the age of 2 months (she also has a pets one) when she became fascinated by the pictures. She is now 4.5 months and still loves to look at the pictures (with a few sound effects from mum or dad!) or just grab the book and scrunch it up (it makes a crinkly noise) and put it in her mouth! It's very light so she can move it around easily. These kind of books aren't expensive and I reckon they're well worth the money.

Wonderful, 22 Oct 2008
Absolutely wonderful book which kept my little girl fascinated long enough in the early weeks for me to have a shower in peace. Her favourite page was the baby one and she would stare at it for ages. Very highly recommended and I have since bought one for a friend's baby.

fascinating!, 15 Oct 2008
I just recieved this book, and my baby of just 10 weeks was really enjoying gazing at the bold patterns which accompany the faces - she loves blace & white images and this book certainly grasped her attention, i hope to get lots of enjoyment out of it. Would definatley reccomend - and "pets" version also. The mirror is a nice touch, and i like the fact that it has a velcro loop so you can attatch it to a pram when they are a little older.

Perfect for very young babies, 09 Oct 2008
This perfect for very young babies. To an adult eye (or any child over maybe 6 months) it's something and nothing. BUT, let your baby decide. You'll see it's so very well suited to him/her. Six pages of simple faces or patterns that mesmerise very young babies. We used ours with our daughter from aged 4 weeks. We would just have it open were she could see it and she'd become calm and transfixed. The contrasts delight little babies. A fabulous value for money first book for the very small.

Perfect for very young babies, 09 Oct 2008
This perfect for very young babies. To an adult eye (or any child over maybe 6 months) it's something and nothing. BUT, let your baby decide. You'll see it's so very well suited to him/her. Six pages of simple faces or patterns that mesmerise very young babies. We used ours with our daughter from aged 4 weeks. We would just have it open were she could see it and she'd become calm and transfixed. The contrasts delight little babies. A fabulous value for money first book for the very small.

Great colourful pictures , 23 Jun 2008
My son is only 5 months, but he loves looking at this book even if he doesn't understand the "story" yet - there are lots of bright colours and things to see in the pictures. I can see him enjoying it more and more as he gets older as we discuss the content of the pictures (people, animals, clowns, magicians...) My only problem is to stop my son from eating the book! The CD is a great bonus.

Entertaining!!, 19 Jun 2008
my son just loves this book and will sit for ages looking through each page as there is so much happening at every turn including the texture of the cut out sections....i would definately recommend it.

great book, 06 May 2008
My 17 month old has had this book for a while, and loves it.
It's great fun to sing through it with him, he loves turning the pages, and he always picks this book up if there's more than one choice in front of him.
A lovely, colourful, and fun book for all.

Great fun, 21 Mar 2008
It's great when a children's rhyme we all know is given a new lease of life. This book does this. Yes there is the bus, yes there are the wheels and all the rest, but there is so much going on in each picture and each picture is so full of colour and life, that my youngster never gets tired of the book.
That's the best recommendation I can give.

This book ROCKS, 13 Jan 2008
A major favourite with my 18 month old girl. She requests it about 10 times a day, sits on my lap and ROCKS - no other way to put it. She does the wipers with her arms flailing, sticks her little fingers through the holes to turn the pages and observes the well drawn detail of doggies, butterflies etc etc. Much recommended! But of course you can't just read it, you've got to sing it and do the actions/ baby signs too!

Perfect to introduce them to books!, 29 Nov 2008
A wonderful little book. Has lift the flaps so the little ones can interact whilst you're reading the story. A simple story, but kept both my girls entertained again and again. They never seem to get bored of it. Solid and sturdy - excellent for toddlers and babies a like. You won't be disappointed.

basic but well loved, 28 Aug 2008
My 15 month old boy loves this book mainly because he loves opening flaps! We vary between this and the 'Where's Spot' book (where the flaps are easier to spot). He never seems to tire of them!

Interactive Story, 08 Aug 2008
This book is wonderful with lift up flaps and a simple story which delighted my son as a toddler. Even now we like to look at the book and lift the flaps. I would recommend this book to any toddler, its wonderful.

My son's first and favourite, 18 Mar 2008
I first heard the story told on Cbeebies story time. I re-enacted it much to my son's amusement and we bought the book at the earliest opportunity. Its a great book with a simply premise- several pets are sent by the zoo and all are unsuitable until the last one "he was perfect. I kept him". Its a lift the flap book with just enough text to keep their attention on each page. The illustrations are simple and bold and the book presents opportunities to talk about proportions and appearances and of course, to make funny animal noises. My son, in his enthusiasm, has wrecked the first one we bought him and we are going to have to buy a new one. That's how much he loves it. Since this book, he has really learnt to enjoy books as a one to one activity with me, which makes me really happy.

Excellent. , 11 Dec 2007
This was a book given to my daughter for her first birthday. It was a favourite for a long time and has done a lot for promoting her language development. The pictures are lovely. The book is sturdy and unlike some flap books, they do not easily pull off.

A favourite!, 06 Nov 2008
My son has just turned 2 and this book has been a favourite for a few months. He enjoys looking for the 'hidden' characters and the reference to nursery rhyme characters etc.

A classic, 28 Oct 2008
Both me and me toddler adore this book. Lovely pictures that provide excellent hide and seek involvement for toddlers, and sing song narrative that will engage and delight babies and toddlers alike. Peepo is also a gem - the Ahlbergs are genius!

Lovely and gentle, 03 Aug 2008
Such a lovely board book and in my opinion it's perfect for babies and toddlers of any age really.
It's especially good for reading before a daytime nap (or any winding down time) as the beautiful rhymes and gentle illustrations can be quite soothing.
My 2 year old daughter loves it and I highly recommend it.
Buy it and you'll soon see...it will come out from the bookshelf time and time again.


amazing book let down by presentation, 26 Jan 2008
As all the other reviews say, this is an out and out classic children's book - a must have.
This copy, however, is dreadful. The paper is thin and overly glossy, making it difficult to get to the next page and it could do with being bigger as it's really all about the pictures. I bought where the wild things are at the same time and that is amazingly presented, highlighting the problem with this further. This seems like a pamphlet or concert programme - cheap.
Save money and get the board book. It's smaller but the pictures are sharper.

Charming, 14 Sep 2007
What a perfectly charming book. Children love the bouncy rhyme and they recognise many famous characters such as tom thumb and cinderella. Statistics show that if a child is not interested in a reading by the time they are 7 they never will be. This is a brilliant introduction to literature!

What a jolly good read!, 14 Jul 2007
I thought that the Jolly Postman couldn't be beaten, but this wins hands down. Absolutely brilliant read, great rhymes, 'interactive' in the sense that the children get to open the letters themselves. Recommended without a doubt. My children love it!

Nice, but just milking the original really., 26 Feb 2007
This book has lots of lovely little envelopes to explore, with lots of lovely little letters, advertising fliers, cards etc in. It is undeniably beautiful, if a little delicate for little hands.
The only problem them I have with it is an incredible feeling of "been there done that".
The Jolly postman was fresh and exciting, this is just using the same idea over again.]
Relying so heavily on Christams as the theme also means that this book is limited to when it gets read, most people are really sick of Christmas by mid January (by most people I mean adults, the person usually required to read the story).
A nice book but don't bother if you already own the jolly postman, you just don't need two books so alike.


A true delight!, 10 Nov 2004
This a truly wonderful book, with a great little novelty items in each envelope. The Humpty jigsaw puzzle is my 3year old's favourite. Every page has fabulous illustrations, as you would expect from Janet Ahlberg, with loads of detail - just the sort that children love to pour over. My nearly 6year old daughter also still loves it. Highly recommended!!!

charming and fun book, 08 Nov 2003
I bought this book last year for my three year old niece who loves me reading to her. She asks for this book over and over and knows it by heart she always puts all the inserts back very carefully so as not to lose them and often we find her simply amusing herself by looking at the beautiful illustrations. The best christmas book she has had so far.

The Jolly Christmas Postman, 06 Apr 2003
This book was actually bought as a Christmas present, but as fans of Janet and Allan Ahlberg and especially The Jolly Postman, we sneaked a peek {or two}before wrapping it up.
Not quite as funny as The Jolly Postman which is exceptionally entertaining for children and adults alike, The Jolly Christmas Postman is still a very good children's book and one they will ask for again and again. I would say it has appeal to a large age range from as young as 2-3years literally to adult, its one of those books you do actually enjoy reading, makes bedtime effortless!

Worth the expense of going for the hardcover/board version, 07 Oct 2008
This much-loved classic is my 10-month old boy's favourite. We deliberately went for the hardback version with board pages, which is capable of withstanding the inevitable bashing it receives better than the paperback version. (The flaps are thin card - hardly indestructible but sturdy enough to require some considerable effort to tear.)

Like the review above, I was mildly concerned about the repetition of the word "no" throughout the book, but that's just how the book is and the most important thing is that my son loves interacting with it, always attacking each flap with gusto to see what's underneath it, and that's the most important thing really.

flimsy flaps, 27 Sep 2008
I bought this several months ago for my little boy, who is now 16 months old. Although he loves his books, bringing me a book to read to him several times during the day, this has never been one of his favourites. Despite that, this is the only "lift-the-flap" book that he has managed to tear off one of the flaps from (and he has several of these books). I guess that babies have different tastes in books (just like adults) but I think it could have been made a lot sturdier. For example, we have had no problems with "Dear Zoo" which has been read a lot more times.

well loved.. but.., 28 Aug 2008
My 15 month old boy loves this book and never tires of opening the flaps.. The only slight issue I have is that it contains a lot of 'no's' in it. That is how the book runs of course as he's looking for spot in the cupboard, under the bed etc saying 'is he under the bed?' and some animal will be under the flap saying 'no'. Of course that's the way of the book, but i'm just conscious of it being in the negative state throughout for some reason, and affirming 'no' every time my boy lifts a flap.

Where's SPOT lift-the-flap book, 24 Jan 2008
from Eric Hill.

This review is for the PUFFIN paperback, lift-the-flap version/1983.

22 thick, shiny pages in the popular 2-page spread format.
Large, bold, easy-to-follow text on one page and a picture and a lift-the flap opportunity on the other.
9 sturdy flaps ensure successful lifting/replacing, time and time again.
Colourfully illustrated throughout.

In this story, naughty Spot is being elusive, at dinner time, and his Mum (Sally) has to go and seek him out!
The delightful story is enhanced by the various creatures hidden behind the flaps who aid the lovable Spot by responding `No!' to the question asked....until the last page, when all is revealed!

From the back cover:-

`SPOT is one of the essential experiences of childhood' - Parent Magazine.'

One of the best series of books for early readers!

A Wonderful Find!, 02 Nov 2007
I bought this for my 10 month old daughter, and now at nearly two years of age she still loves having it read to her. A wonderful lift the flap book which lets the little ones really get involved in the story, which features a bear, snake, hippo, lion, monkey, crocodile, penguins and a tortoise. The popularity of this board book has led to the purchase of other 'Spot' books.

Hungry for the Caterpillar!, 14 Oct 2008
If you love reading to your child, do not miss this book.

It is a delightful, humourous,dream-like surreal book, with a repetitive, poetic, chanting story.

It is (deservedly) a children's classic. Many reviewers here have tried to break down the different elements of this book.

What