The Very Hungry Caterpillar has remained in print for 25 years, attesting to its popularity' (Silvey, 120). 'Eric Carle was one of the first illustrators intrigued with the idea of introducing natural science concepts to young children. Signed first editions are exceedingly rare. Housed in a custom half morocco clamshell box. Near fine in a very good with $3.91 on the bottom flap, clipped on the top as usual with a few small stains, small owner inscription to the front free endpaper. Signed by Eric Carle on the title page with an original drawing of a caterpillar. Oblong quarto, original illustrated boards.

First edition, first printing of Carle's most recognizable work (with the complete number line 1-5 on the copyright page and A3450 on the rear board) in a first issue dust jacket with two paragraphs on the front flap, photograph of Carle with his two children to the rear flap with blurb mentioning only his first book, '1,2,3 to the Zoo', The World Publishing Company New York and Cleveland at bottom of both flaps and A3450 on rear flap (Grolier).

The very hungry caterpillar book