The Loss of Iconic Children’s Book Creators

The world lost two amazing children’s book creators this week – Eric Carle and Lois Ehlert. With recognizable illustrations, their books were the staple of countless children’s formative years.

Eric Carle, a self-proclaimed “picture writer” was the author and/or illustrator of more than 70 titles for kids. Growing up in Nazi Germany, Carle spent his adult years focusing on bold, bright colors. As he talked about why The Very Hungry Caterpillar is still so popular, “It took me a long time, but I think it is a book of hope,” he said. “Children need hope. You — little insignificant caterpillar — can grow up into a beautiful butterfly and fly into the world with your talent.” Someday, I’m going to go up to Amherst, Massachusetts to see the Eric Carle Museum!

Lois Ehlert grew up in a creative family who encouraged her with scraps of fabric and wood to create art. Collage, found objects, die-cuts, and bright, bold colors were the trademark of Lois Ehlert. With a number of Caldecott honors to her name, Lois not only taught the youngest readers their colors and shapes, but she also inspired readers to explore nature. With over 35 titles to her name, Lois’s work is sure to be missed in the children’s book world.

Interestingly enough, both Carle and Ehlert worked with Bill Martin Jr. Childhood classics – Brown Bear, Brown Bear What Do You See? and Chicka Chicka Boom Boom are forever favorites that not only teach young kids simple concepts but are also a joy to explore!

The children’s book world will not be the same without these amazing creators. If you’ve got some time today, pull one their books off the shelf for a read, you won’t be disappointed.