Eric Carle
Eric Carle
================
Full Name and Common Aliases
Eric Carle's full name was Eric Siegel Carl. He is commonly known as Eric Carle.
Birth and Death Dates
Eric Carle was born on June 25, 1929, in Syracuse, New York. He passed away on May 23, 2021, at the age of 91.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Carle held dual citizenship of American and German nationality. He is best known as a renowned children's book author and illustrator, with over 70 books to his credit.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Syracuse, New York, Carle developed an interest in art at a young age. His mother, who was a painter, encouraged his creative pursuits. After World War II, Carle moved to Germany, where he attended the Academy of Fine Arts in Stuttgart. In 1952, he returned to the United States and began working as a graphic designer for The New Yorker magazine.
Major Accomplishments
Carle's breakthrough came when he created _The Very Hungry Caterpillar_ in 1969. This book became an instant classic and has since been translated into more than 47 languages, selling over 50 million copies worldwide. Carle went on to write and illustrate numerous other popular books, including _Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?_, _Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You Hear?_, and _The Grouchy Ladybug_.
Notable Works or Actions
Carle's innovative collage technique, which involved layering hand-painted tissue paper to create colorful images, has become a hallmark of his work. He also experimented with other mediums, such as painting and printmaking. In addition to writing children's books, Carle was an advocate for environmental education and conservation.
Impact and Legacy
Eric Carle's contributions to the world of children's literature are immeasurable. His stories have not only delighted young readers but have also taught them valuable lessons about counting, colors, and the life cycle. Carle's impact extends beyond his books; he has inspired a new generation of artists and illustrators with his unique style and techniques.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Eric Carle is widely quoted and remembered for his groundbreaking approach to children's book illustration and his commitment to environmental education. His books have been translated into numerous languages, making them accessible to readers worldwide. As a pioneer in the field of children's literature, Carle continues to inspire authors, illustrators, and educators alike with his legacy.
As an artist, educator, and advocate for children's literature, Eric Carle has left an indelible mark on the world. His dedication to creating engaging stories and innovative illustrations has captured the hearts and imaginations of readers across generations. Today, his books remain beloved classics, and his legacy continues to inspire new artists, authors, and educators.
Quotes by Eric Carle

Let's put it this way: if you are a novelist, I think you start out with a 20 word idea, and you work at it and you wind up with a 200,000 word novel. We, picture-book people, or at least I, start out with 200,000 words and I reduce it to 20.

One day I think it’s the greatest idea ever that I’m working on. The next day I think it’s the worst that I’ve ever worked on – and I swing between that a lot. Some days I’m very happy with what I’m doing, and the next day I am desperate – it’s not working out!

Let’s put it this way: if you are a novelist, I think you start out with a 20 word idea, and you work at it and you wind up with a 200,000 word novel. We, picture-book people, or at least I, start out with 200,000 words and I reduce it to 20.

You know, now it’s sinking in. It’s taken me a long time to realize – and it is sinking in – how important this book is. And I have a certain distance now. I’ve done it such a long time ago.

One Sunday morning the warm sun came up and – pop! – out of the egg came a tiny and very hungry caterpillar.

We have eyes, and we’re looking at stuff all the time, all day long. And I just think that whatever our eyes touch should be beautiful, tasteful, appealing, and important.

Simplify, slow down, be kind. And don’t forget to have art in your life – music, paintings, theater, dance, and sunsets.


