Remembering Eric Carle
Eric Carle has passed away… a sad day for all lovers of children’s books.
When I was a young teacher barely out of college, I was teaching elementary school in Dayton, Ohio. Every summer, as part of our teaching contract, we had to complete continuing education hours.
I love, love, love Children’s Books! So when I found out that Eric Carle would be offering a two-day seminar on Children’s Picture Books, their importance, and his unique art process, I was thrilled!
The seminar was in Cincinnati, Ohio… so an easy drive from Dayton. I remember still the morning I woke up to drive down for the day, and the anticipation I felt! My husband and I were newly married, and it was so exciting to be living in a new state, and starting all the parts of our life together. Exploring new adventures and beginning our careers.
As I drove to the seminar, I wondered if I would have the nerve to talk with this wonderful man. I had been enamored with his art, and his process since I learned about him in my college Children’s Literature course.
He did not disappoint!
During the two days I was lucky enough to spend with him, he delighted all of us with his stories and his art…. He even let us try his process! ( I discovered I was not an artist… ) We discussed how he wrote and why… I remember him saying he loved to delight Children… with art and words.
Boy, did he do that!
I think everyone knows his story The Hungry Caterpillar. This iconic book, and the many others he wrote, delight and inspire children all across the world, as his books are translated into a number of other languages. The Hungry Caterpillar alone is translated into 40 languages. Imagine the reach that gives him and his words!
"The Mixed up Chameleon," by Elena S., age 6
Inspired by Eric Carle's Mixed Up Chameleon
As I think about stories, the way they are crafted, the importance they hold… it makes me again realize how valuable they are to children. Children’s books touch children’s hearts, provide them with vivid imaginative process, comfort and delight, as well as teach them the importance of the written word.
I always say that once a child can read, the whole world opens up to them! A book can take you anywhere… show you new worlds and inspire kids to try new things! Let’s all remember to appreciate the value of time spent reading to children… big and small. Go find a good one, settle in with a favorite child on your lap, or just choose to smile yourself!
Happy reading!