The Very Hungry Caterpillar. London: Hamish Hamilton, 1970. First UK Edition. Glazed pictorial boards featuring Carle’s iconic caterpillar illustration in original dust jacket. Jacket with a few tape repairs, the book in nice bright condition. Illustrated throughout in colour by the author.

The first UK edition of one of the most beloved and influential children’s books of the twentieth century. The Very Hungry Caterpillar has achieved near-universal recognition since its publication, selling over 50 million copies worldwide and being translated into more than 60 languages.

Its success lies in its deceptively simple formula: a charming story of metamorphosis, combined with innovative interactive elements and Carle’s distinctive collage illustrations. The book’s unique design—with die-cut pages demonstrating the caterpillar’s progress and pages that gradually increase in length to represent the days of the week—was revolutionary for children’s publishing in 1970.

First published in the United States by The World Publishing Company in 1969. The following year, Hamish Hamilton issued the first UK edition.