In Memory of Eric Carle

The world has lost Eric Carle, who has brought so much joy to so many through the years. What we have gained from him will live on for generations to come. The author and illustrator of over 70 books, there are few who haven’t loved at least one of his books in their own childhood or parenthood. Last night after hearing the news of his passing, I found the book on my shelf that was all three of my children’s favorite book, well over 30 years old, ragged and worn from the many times young hands held that book, THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR. As I paged through it, I was reminded as I neared the end that the last page was carefully taped back together from the injury suffered when one of my children enthusiastically turned it to reveal what the caterpillar turned into after its journey through all that it had eaten in its very hungry state. We are all still thrilled to see the colorful butterfly emerge, as I feel Eric Carle knew we would, signalling the start of something new, vibrant and beautiful. This is his legacy, bringing a colorful and hopeful sense of wonderment to the world.