Eric Carle

Date of Birth: June 25, 1929

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: May 23, 2021

Biography

Eric Carle was a beloved American author, designer, and illustrator of children’s books. Born in Syracuse, New York, Carle spent much of his early childhood in Germany, where he moved with his family when he was six years old. He returned to the United States in 1952, where he began his career as a graphic designer and later found great success as a children’s book author and illustrator. Carle’s most famous work, “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” was published in 1969 and has since become a classic of children’s literature, selling over 50 million copies worldwide and translated into more than 60 languages. His distinctive collage-style artwork, characterized by hand-painted papers, vibrant colors, and simple yet profound storytelling, has captivated generations of young readers. In addition to “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” Carle authored and illustrated numerous other popular books, including “Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?” (in collaboration with Bill Martin Jr.) and “The Very Busy Spider.” Throughout his career, Carle wrote and illustrated more than 70 books, many of which are cherished by children and parents alike. Carle’s work has been recognized with various awards, and his contributions to children’s literature have had a lasting impact on both the field and its audience. In 2002, he and his wife, Barbara, founded The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, Massachusetts, which showcases the art of picture books and fosters a love of literature and art in children.

5 Interesting Facts about Eric Carle

1. Eric Carle’s first job in the United States was as a graphic designer for The New York Times.

2. “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” was originally titled “A Week with Willi Worm” before Carle changed the main character to a caterpillar.

3. Carle illustrated more than 70 books, many of which he also wrote.

4. In addition to his work as an author and illustrator, Carle was a philanthropist. He and his wife established The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art.

5. Carle’s books have been translated into more than 60 languages and have sold over 152 million copies worldwide.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Eric Carle

1. “With many of my books I attempt to bridge the gap between the home and school. To me, home represents, or should represent; warmth, security, toys, holding hands, being held. School is a strange and new place for a child. Will it be a happy place? There are new people, a teacher, classmates – will they be friendly?”

2. “We have eyes, and we’re looking at stuff all the time, all day long. And I just think that whatever our eyes touch should be beautiful, tasteful, appealing, and important.”

3. “The unknown often brings fear with it.”

4. “I think it is a feeling that comes from having been loved. That is what children need.”

5. “I often try to tell my readers that the way they are feeling is okay. They are not alone. We all have our struggles.”