CARLE, Eric. The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

(New York and Clevland): World Publishing Company, [1969].  First edition.  Hardcover. [28]-pages.  The correct first printing (Full number line on copyright page 1 2 3 4 5 73 72 71 70 69 and A3450 on rear cover) of this beautifully illustrated and cleverly designed picture book that has captivated generations of young readers.  The story follows a tiny caterpillar’s transformation as it eats its way through a variety of foods before becoming a butterfly—teaching children about counting, the days of the week, and the life cycle of a butterfly in a charming and accessible way.  A very good copy, a little grubby in parts, rubbed and worn at base of spine, in a very good copy of the dust jacket with $3.97 price present on the bottom of the front flap and $4.25 at the top, “The World Publishing Company / New York and Cleveland” is printed at the foot of both flaps. Rare with both prices un-clipped, there are only two known copies with prices uncut and without the addition of (variant) price sticker.  A nice presentable copy of this children’s classic.