The Little Worried Caterpillar

All Little Green’s friends have changed from caterpillars into butterflies and are sure that it will soon be her turn. However, Little Green is not excited about this; in fact, she is very anxious. Other creatures try to help, but it is Rabbit who listens carefully, making Little Green feel seen and heard.

Told in rhyme, ‘The Little Worried Caterpillar’ is a lovely story for sharing. Little Green is anxious about changes ahead, in her case, turning into a butterfly. She likes things as they are and children are sure to relate to her feelings as she clings to what she knows, empathising with how she feels as perhaps they are facing change in the form of going to school, a new teacher… Various ways of helping her calm down are suggested, but it is Rabbit’s offer of a listening ear and a word of good advice which is just what Little Green needs to be able to face the challenges ahead. The story may well encourage children to share their concerns- and adults to listen!

The illustrations are simply delightful! There are many details to notice and a wealth of characters which children might enjoy creating their own stories about. The picture of Little Green curled up in a ball of worry perfectly captures her feelings of isolation and despair and is just beautiful! It is a wonderfully warm, reassuring story which is sure to become a firm favourite in nurseries, classrooms and homes!

The Little Worried Caterpillar

Christine Pym

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702330063

Published 1st August 2024