Charming and Informative: Read Our Review of The Very Hungry Caterpillar’s Very First Encyclopedia

Travel around the world to explore the continents, discover where different animals live, learn all about the people who came before us, and find out how your body works in this colourful and charming first reference book about everything.

I love a good encyclopedia. We don’t have to google everything, right? Encyclopedias give you a wealth of information at your fingertips, and come with the added joy of flicking through pages of a book. I also love The Very Hungry Caterpillar, as do generations of readers since Eric Carle first published the iconic book in 1969. So, I was thrilled to see that the World of Eric Carle has brought out a wonderful encyclopedia for young readers aged 3+.

Each chapter focuses on a different theme, with a new topic every time you turn the page. Bite-size chunks of information are complemented by captivating illustrations by the World of Eric Carle, eye-catching photography, and simple how-it-works diagrams, while pull-out images and facts provide extra nuggets of interest. Young learners can find out all about light and sound, the planets in the Solar System, how plants grow, and much, much more in this one-of-a-kind introduction to key curriculum subjects.

There is so much to love and learn in this hardcover book – it would make a great addition to the shelves of kids’ bedrooms and classrooms. As always, Carle’s illustration style is bright and punchy. The use of photos of real kids and objects makes the encyclopedia accessible and relatable, and the collage-style design is just gorgeous. The book deep-dives into so many topics from ancient history and our solar system to different cultural celebrations and food. Kids and parents could easily dip in and out of the encyclopedia, coming back to their favourite sections to learn more.

For lovers of The Very Hungry Caterpillar and all bright young minds aged 3+, this is the ultimate must-have encyclopedia. It would make a wonderful gift for inquisitive young readers this gift-giving season!

Buy a copy of The Very Hungry Caterpillar’s Very First Encyclopedia here.