SUMMERSIDE, P.E.I. — Eric Carle’s "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" has turned over a new leaf in lieu of its 50th anniversary since publication, and to mark the special occasion, the Inspire Learning Centre held a celebration Saturday morning.
The book has an enduring appeal says Hazel Birch, organizer of the event, which can be attributed to its fusion of a visual story with educational concepts.
“It’s a classic because it has so many learning aspects such as colour recognition, numbers, days of the week, metamorphosis, so it helps educate children in a fun and engaging way,” said Birch.
“This is also science week for the library, so this event is a great opportunity to merge chrysalis, when the caterpillar goes through a series of stages to transform into a butterfly, with the anniversary of the book, and the importance of reading,” she continued.
Carle’s tale highlights change – in which the caterpillar hatches out of an egg, proceeds to eat colourful fruits in escalating quantities over a week, before ending the junk-food diet with a healthy green leaf. The caterpillar then nestles into a cocoon and emerges as a butterfly.
Julie Salvador was at the event reading a special edition of the book to her children Olivia MacKendrick and Teddy Smith.
“It’s important for children to be introduced early into reading to help with their development, plus this is a good bonding time for us,” said Salvador. “Teddy is a big eater too, so he is engaged in the storyline (of The Very Hungry Caterpillar)," she added.
The event ran from 10:30 a.m. until noon, with plenty of games, including mini-putt, crafts, snacks, and reading from Carle’s story by Birch.
