About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is curious about how a person becomes an artist or when they need a gentle bridge between picture books and longer chapter books. Through nineteen short, autobiographical vignettes, beloved illustrator Eric Carle shares memories of his childhood in Germany and his adult life in America, all linked by his encounters with animals and nature. It is a perfect choice for children who feel a deep kinship with the natural world and want to understand the 'why' behind a creative life. Parents will appreciate the book's quiet wisdom and its ability to turn small, everyday moments into profound lessons on empathy and observation. While it touches on Carle's experience growing up during World War II, the tone remains reassuring and grounded. It is an excellent tool for building vocabulary and encouraging children to reflect on their own life stories, making it a wonderful shared reading experience for families who value art, history, and the gentle exploration of personal identity.
