Eric Carle began his career as an illustrator and graphic designer. As an illustrator for other picture books, he picked up the rhythmic simplicity of the accompanying words and would go on to create some of the most iconic and loved picture books we still read today.
When asked why he thinks The Very Hungry Caterpillar has remained popular for so long, Carle said, “I think it is a book of hope. Children need hope. You, little insignificant caterpillar can grow up into a beautiful butterfly and fly into the world with your talent.”