A famous children's book with an unexpected Japanese beginning

The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a highly acclaimed, world-famous children's book, by American author Eric Carle. The book has sold more than 55 million copies worldwide and has been translated into more than 70 different languages. But did you know that the book's first edition was actually printed in Japan? 

Reportedly, the book's editor was unable to find a printer in America that were able to print the book due to the unusual lay out and die cut design of the book. The pages were different sizes and had perforations. In the summer of 1968, the editor visited Japan and was lucky to meet with the late president of Kaisei-sha publishing company, Hiroshi Imamura. Mr Imamura fell in love with the book and found a company capable of doing the work. The first edition was published in 1969, featuring "Printed in Japan" on the cover.

Despite being printed in Japan, the Japanese version wasn't printed until 1976. The connection to Japan, along with the book’s artwork and gentle storytelling have made it a classic in Japan as much as in America. In fact, reportedly it is the most read picture book by an overseas author in Japan. There is even a "Very Hungry Caterpillar Day" in Japan. And it is today! See my next post for more about the book in Japan.