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.

Want/Need another one for 2009, 13 Oct 2008
I got one on sale last year & was a bit sceptical of the format, but have come to rely on it. With my son now in school and daughter interested in trying dance classes, it's great to keep track of every little thing that my tired brain (also have 4 mo. old) needs to keep track of. The spaces are more horizontal than vertical so have more room to write what's needed. I have a different colored marker for each of us & used the extra column for general info. or festivals or other activities we might want to do. Athough I would be picky about having a tradition format calendar that starts on Sunday, and never got the hang of those kind that have the days on the left, this one is easy to adapt to, and helps show the children how far away something is since it's linear. Weekends are highlighted & cartoons cute & cheery.

best ever, 11 Sep 2008
Mum's family calendar by Sandra Boynton is the best calendar i've ever had, the layout is just perfect its clearly set out and easy to read the best thing about it is its devided into five separate sections so everyone gets their own personal colum, also as well as being a calendar it has lots of other great features which makes it a great buy!

"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.

Want/Need another one for 2009, 13 Oct 2008
I got one on sale last year & was a bit sceptical of the format, but have come to rely on it. With my son now in school and daughter interested in trying dance classes, it's great to keep track of every little thing that my tired brain (also have 4 mo. old) needs to keep track of. The spaces are more horizontal than vertical so have more room to write what's needed. I have a different colored marker for each of us & used the extra column for general info. or festivals or other activities we might want to do. Athough I would be picky about having a tradition format calendar that starts on Sunday, and never got the hang of those kind that have the days on the left, this one is easy to adapt to, and helps show the children how far away something is since it's linear. Weekends are highlighted & cartoons cute & cheery.

best ever, 11 Sep 2008
Mum's family calendar by Sandra Boynton is the best calendar i've ever had, the layout is just perfect its clearly set out and easy to read the best thing about it is its devided into five separate sections so everyone gets their own personal colum, also as well as being a calendar it has lots of other great features which makes it a great buy!



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.

Want/Need another one for 2009, 13 Oct 2008
I got one on sale last year & was a bit sceptical of the format, but have come to rely on it. With my son now in school and daughter interested in trying dance classes, it's great to keep track of every little thing that my tired brain (also have 4 mo. old) needs to keep track of. The spaces are more horizontal than vertical so have more room to write what's needed. I have a different colored marker for each of us & used the extra column for general info. or festivals or other activities we might want to do. Athough I would be picky about having a tradition format calendar that starts on Sunday, and never got the hang of those kind that have the days on the left, this one is easy to adapt to, and helps show the children how far away something is since it's linear. Weekends are highlighted & cartoons cute & cheery.

best ever, 11 Sep 2008
Mum's family calendar by Sandra Boynton is the best calendar i've ever had, the layout is just perfect its clearly set out and easy to read the best thing about it is its devided into five separate sections so everyone gets their own personal colum, also as well as being a calendar it has lots of other great features which makes it a great buy!



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!

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.

Great for babies AND parents!, 23 Mar 2008
This is our 4 month old son's favourite book, as indicated by his rapt attention and animated arm and leg waving on certain pages. All the pages have bold colours, and the small amount of text on each page has a rhythmic quality that makes it enjoyable to read aloud and keeps little'n engrossed. He particularly likes the lion page, although this might be in part due to his dad (me) performing a load "Roar!" at this point. I'll update review when our son is old enough to read it himself.

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.

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.

Want/Need another one for 2009, 13 Oct 2008
I got one on sale last year & was a bit sceptical of the format, but have come to rely on it. With my son now in school and daughter interested in trying dance classes, it's great to keep track of every little thing that my tired brain (also have 4 mo. old) needs to keep track of. The spaces are more horizontal than vertical so have more room to write what's needed. I have a different colored marker for each of us & used the extra column for general info. or festivals or other activities we might want to do. Athough I would be picky about having a tradition format calendar that starts on Sunday, and never got the hang of those kind that have the days on the left, this one is easy to adapt to, and helps show the children how far away something is since it's linear. Weekends are highlighted & cartoons cute & cheery.

best ever, 11 Sep 2008
Mum's family calendar by Sandra Boynton is the best calendar i've ever had, the layout is just perfect its clearly set out and easy to read the best thing about it is its devided into five separate sections so everyone gets their own personal colum, also as well as being a calendar it has lots of other great features which makes it a great buy!



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!

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.

Great for babies AND parents!, 23 Mar 2008
This is our 4 month old son's favourite book, as indicated by his rapt attention and animated arm and leg waving on certain pages. All the pages have bold colours, and the small amount of text on each page has a rhythmic quality that makes it enjoyable to read aloud and keeps little'n engrossed. He particularly likes the lion page, although this might be in part due to his dad (me) performing a load "Roar!" at this point. I'll update review when our son is old enough to read it himself.

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.

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 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.

Want/Need another one for 2009, 13 Oct 2008
I got one on sale last year & was a bit sceptical of the format, but have come to rely on it. With my son now in school and daughter interested in trying dance classes, it's great to keep track of every little thing that my tired brain (also have 4 mo. old) needs to keep track of. The spaces are more horizontal than vertical so have more room to write what's needed. I have a different colored marker for each of us & used the extra column for general info. or festivals or other activities we might want to do. Athough I would be picky about having a tradition format calendar that starts on Sunday, and never got the hang of those kind that have the days on the left, this one is easy to adapt to, and helps show the children how far away something is since it's linear. Weekends are highlighted & cartoons cute & cheery.

best ever, 11 Sep 2008
Mum's family calendar by Sandra Boynton is the best calendar i've ever had, the layout is just perfect its clearly set out and easy to read the best thing about it is its devided into five separate sections so everyone gets their own personal colum, also as well as being a calendar it has lots of other great features which makes it a great buy!



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!

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.

Great for babies AND parents!, 23 Mar 2008
This is our 4 month old son's favourite book, as indicated by his rapt attention and animated arm and leg waving on certain pages. All the pages have bold colours, and the small amount of text on each page has a rhythmic quality that makes it enjoyable to read aloud and keeps little'n engrossed. He particularly likes the lion page, although this might be in part due to his dad (me) performing a load "Roar!" at this point. I'll update review when our son is old enough to read it himself.

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.

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.

a small-sized version of the original bestseller, 26 Nov 2000
I was disappointed at the small size of the board book - even tiny fingers find it hard to poke through the holes munched by the caterpillar. The little toy is cute, I had thought that he would be able to 'eat his way through the holes in the pages', but as stated above the book is too small. Having said that , The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a classic enjoyed by my children 20 years ago and still popular today.

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.

Want/Need another one for 2009, 13 Oct 2008
I got one on sale last year & was a bit sceptical of the format, but have come to rely on it. With my son now in school and daughter interested in trying dance classes, it's great to keep track of every little thing that my tired brain (also have 4 mo. old) needs to keep track of. The spaces are more horizontal than vertical so have more room to write what's needed. I have a different colored marker for each of us & used the extra column for general info. or festivals or other activities we might want to do. Athough I would be picky about having a tradition format calendar that starts on Sunday, and never got the hang of those kind that have the days on the left, this one is easy to adapt to, and helps show the children how far away something is since it's linear. Weekends are highlighted & cartoons cute & cheery.

best ever, 11 Sep 2008
Mum's family calendar by Sandra Boynton is the best calendar i've ever had, the layout is just perfect its clearly set out and easy to read the best thing about it is its devided into five separate sections so everyone gets their own personal colum, also as well as being a calendar it has lots of other great features which makes it a great buy!



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!

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.

Great for babies AND parents!, 23 Mar 2008
This is our 4 month old son's favourite book, as indicated by his rapt attention and animated arm and leg waving on certain pages. All the pages have bold colours, and the small amount of text on each page has a rhythmic quality that makes it enjoyable to read aloud and keeps little'n engrossed. He particularly likes the lion page, although this might be in part due to his dad (me) performing a load "Roar!" at this point. I'll update review when our son is old enough to read it himself.

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.

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.

a small-sized version of the original bestseller, 26 Nov 2000
I was disappointed at the small size of the board book - even tiny fingers find it hard to poke through the holes munched by the caterpillar. The little toy is cute, I had thought that he would be able to 'eat his way through the holes in the pages', but as stated above the book is too small. Having said that , The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a classic enjoyed by my children 20 years ago and still popular today.

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!

The repetitive rhymes and action-packed illustrations in the delightful Peepo! have made this stunning book a favourite for small children and their parents for many years.

This glossy, indestructible board book edition captures the essence of the original and takes even the smallest of children on a peek-a-boo journey through a day in the life of a baby and is ideal for teaching tiny children the joys of handling and sharing books. (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.

Want/Need another one for 2009, 13 Oct 2008
I got one on sale last year & was a bit sceptical of the format, but have come to rely on it. With my son now in school and daughter interested in trying dance classes, it's great to keep track of every little thing that my tired brain (also have 4 mo. old) needs to keep track of. The spaces are more horizontal than vertical so have more room to write what's needed. I have a different colored marker for each of us & used the extra column for general info. or festivals or other activities we might want to do. Athough I would be picky about having a tradition format calendar that starts on Sunday, and never got the hang of those kind that have the days on the left, this one is easy to adapt to, and helps show the children how far away something is since it's linear. Weekends are highlighted & cartoons cute & cheery.

best ever, 11 Sep 2008
Mum's family calendar by Sandra Boynton is the best calendar i've ever had, the layout is just perfect its clearly set out and easy to read the best thing about it is its devided into five separate sections so everyone gets their own personal colum, also as well as being a calendar it has lots of other great features which makes it a great buy!



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!

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.

Great for babies AND parents!, 23 Mar 2008
This is our 4 month old son's favourite book, as indicated by his rapt attention and animated arm and leg waving on certain pages. All the pages have bold colours, and the small amount of text on each page has a rhythmic quality that makes it enjoyable to read aloud and keeps little'n engrossed. He particularly likes the lion page, although this might be in part due to his dad (me) performing a load "Roar!" at this point. I'll update review when our son is old enough to read it himself.

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.

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.

a small-sized version of the original bestseller, 26 Nov 2000
I was disappointed at the small size of the board book - even tiny fingers find it hard to poke through the holes munched by the caterpillar. The little toy is cute, I had thought that he would be able to 'eat his way through the holes in the pages', but as stated above the book is too small. Having said that , The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a classic enjoyed by my children 20 years ago and still popular today.

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!

Marvellous, 28 Oct 2008
A beautiful rhyming story of bygone days with charmingly detailed illustrations. Regardless of what some reviewers say my daughter loved it from as early as 10 months, and still asks for it. As for it being a "stereotypical fairy tale of a 50's family" as one reviewer describes it, yes it is! But what do you want your children to read? True life crime? I think it's a nice introduction to history that Grandparents in particular will love to share with their little loved ones. A delight!

annoyingly conventional, 02 Oct 2008
I bought this book from all the rave reviews.. but was surprised at what an stereotypical, 50's fairy-tale of a family it conveys.. the baby peers through the holes in the pages to see his mummy and daddy happily sleeping together, mummy making porridge, daddy bringing coal, grandma hanging washing etc etc. If like me, you don't live in a house like this, you may find it a tad nauseating.

The illustrations are lovely, but my 15th month old is more interested in the more colourful 'there was an old woman..' and Spot.

An enchanting book for all ages, 29 Aug 2008
I remember reading Janet and Allan Ahlberg books when I was a child and can still recite sections from memory so was really looking forward to introduing my own children to their books. I have 20 month old twins and it was a real joy to find that they were just as entranced with this tale as I was. Given small children's love of repition it is a delight to find a book which they love and which is actually a joy rather than a chore to reread to them time and time again. The text is lovely and the level of detail in the pictures allows all three of us to find new things to spot each time we look at it. All in all a delightful book which I could not recommend highly enough for any parents of babies or small children.

Superb book for children, 10 Aug 2008
excellent book for children to engage with reading. We used for both our girls & they loved it. They would recite the words & that lead onto reading it back to us. Lovely pictures with so much to see & find

Disappointing - not so much fun for children, 28 Jun 2008
A book that a lot of parents tell you is the best book ever for children, but my daughter has not enjoyed it at any age. I agree with the other low-rating reviewers that it doesn't really have any of the things children love about books, the tiny detailed pictures are cute and nostalgic, but children aren't interested in those things. It's very right-on, just like all their books, but a turn-off in my house.

The Jolly Postman must surely be one of the most innovative and interactive books for young children. Accompany the Jolly Postman on his rounds as he delivers post to classic children's characters, all of which happily live within his delivery round. Meet the Three Bears, Cinderella (now happily married to her Prince Charming), Goldilocks and many more. The real magic in this book lies in the inclusion of actual and highly personalised post for each character--each tucked into a neat envelope between the pages of the book. Enjoy Goldilocks' "Sorry" letter to the Three Bears, a Postcard to the Giant from Jack and, most amusing of all, the writ issued to the Big Bad Wolf (still occupying Grandma's cottage) by lawyers acting on behalf of both Red Riding Hood and the Three Little Pigs.

The story is told in charming verse to compliment this very active and unusual storybook. The Jolly Postman is a treasure for children aged 2 to 6 years old. --Victoria MacKenzie

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 knowin