Caterpillar Reviews

Back when he designed his first school, Frank Hill did all the right things. He talked to the faculty members about their programs and goals. He studied all the literature about the future of education and educational technology. He met with the school board to discuss its vision for the district. Then he integrated his research into a building that was the school of the future, primed and prepared for all the educational changes and progress everyone had outlined to him with such enthusiasm.

The educators took one look at the plans and declared they didn't like them.

"I thought, 'what went wrong?'" Hill said. "Then I realized it wasn't the design, it was the changes it would require. People are afraid of change. It's human nature. So I had to figure out how to assuage their fears."

That was 15 years ago. Hill, an urban planner and president of Hill and Associates of Bellevue, has learned quite a bit about the fear of change and what to do about it; enough that he has designed or redesigned more than 60 schools, each time matching the design to its future, not present needs and, each time, running into people who thought those changes were a fine idea, until they realized they were the ones who would have to adapt to them.

Hill decided the easiest thing to do would be to simply give them a book on overcoming one's fear of change. So he wrote one.

All Ages:
"Wings of Change" (Illuminations Arts, Bellevue, illustrations by Aries Cheung) is a book for children, actually. But its principles can apply to any of us. In it, a good-natured caterpillar named Anew is quite happy with his life. Then his friend Faith, a snail, explains that changes are afoot. Anew doesn't understand. But Faith reassures him, "As the world turns, so do you. When you change for the good, you change the world, too."
Anew starts having odd dreams. In one, he decides he can fly. But caterpillars can't fly so crash he does to the ground. Then he dreams he has a butterfly's wings, but a caterpillar's body. He tries to fly again and again, he crashes. Then he dreams has a butterfly's wings and body, but when a bird tries to catch him, rather than fly, he runs like a caterpillar and gets snagged in some thorns.

Thinking like a caterpillar does not work for butterflies, he realizes. Faith explains that the dreams were preparing him for a very big change. Instinctively, Anew starts spinning his cocoon. A few weeks later, he emerges as a butterfly; but not just any butterfly. The new Anew has prepared himself for this, the biggest change of his life. The strange new experiences of flying and seeing the world from the sky are fun, not frightening. While he enjoyed being a caterpillar, he enjoys being a butterfly more.

The fear:
A simple parable, "Wings of Change" incorporates a number of the principles Hill developed for overcoming fear of change.
First, he found, everyone is apprehensive to some degree about change. After all, not all change is good, Hill said. Consider the changes brought about by an earthquake or a heart attack.
As a result, people tend to respond to the good change in three general ways. Some pick up the latest trend and throw themselves into it with blind enthusiasm. The problem with that is they often have no vision for the changes they are making. Like Anew, they fly because they think they should, not because they are prepared for it.

Next, people often want to change, but can't get rid of their old behaviors. They may have butterfly wings, but they still have a caterpillar's body.

Finally, a lot of us end up with all the latest technical and intellectual developments in our fields at our fingertips, but we still think it terms of the status quo. We can't integrate our style with the new circumstances. We have a butterfly's body, but we still think like a caterpillar.
What to do?
Hill found the first step in adapting to change is to recognize how the change will make things better. If you are dealing with someone else's fear of change, you do that by involving the person in the process and showing how the change will be relevant to their goals and activities. Then you demonstrate how they can use elements of the change to accomplish more of what they want to do, Hill said.

Sounds fairly simple. But you're dealing with fear, which is both complicated and irrational. So a fair amount of patience is a good idea.

Dealing with children's fear of change is actually easier, Hill said. Childhood is a continuum of change and kids often sense when a change in their lives in imminent. When it is imminent, encourage the kid to view changes as growth and improvement, Hill said. And, help the child make the change within a safe environment so he or she can exercise control of it.
"Fear of change is often the fear of loss of control, and for good reason," Hill said.

Find your focus:
It is a legitimate fear because change is often thrust upon us, whether we are prepared or not, he said. When that happens, the key is to concentrate on your personal intentions; what will make your world better, even when the world beyond it is in a state of confusion and flux? Often you can adapt elements of the change swirling around you and make them work for you, Hill said.

"Wings of Change" is Hill's first book. He has three more in mind, all of them children's books. He recently finished "Wings Within" about a spiritually self-actualized snail, and is working on books three and four. He won't reveal their plots, other than to say they involve bees and butterflies.
"I write children's books because if I can make things clear enough for children to understand, I just might understand them myself," Hill said.

Wings of Change presents the children's story of a contented caterpillar who is afraid to become a butterfly. This simple metaphor reflects the insights that Dr. Franklin Hill has gained while facilitating progressive changes in education. Dr. Hill specializes in planning new educational facilities. He is well acquainted with the effects of change on the young and the young at heart. Dr. Hill created this beautiful story to illustrate how the process of change, though sometimes scary, can lead to positive transformation. The rich illustrations by renowned graphic artist, Aries Cheung, are exceptional and colorful. Confused by the changes he feels are coming, Anew the caterpillar looks to his friend, Faith, for guidance. Faith reassures Anew that one positive action can change the whole world. Anew chooses to trust Faith and his own dreams. Anew finds happiness as he transforms into a vibrant butterfly. He can finally view the meadows from the sky! Dr. Hill's excellent book Wings of Change will provide peace and optimism for young readers learning to navigate their own changing world.

For children 3 years old and up.

As Faith the snail relates in this simple, pleasant tale of transformation, "As the world turns, so do you. When you change for the good, you change the world too."

Faith is the wise mentor of Anew, a young caterpillar who feels growing pangs of doubt and uncertainty. Though Anew dreams of standing atop rosebuds and viewing mountains from the sky, he is also afraid. Through further dreams and Faith's counsel, Anew learns that "thinking like a caterpillar does not work for butterflies." Following the flow of his own inner yearnings, Anew comes to embrace the mystery of change.

This charming story provides reassurance to young readers who are just learning to navigate their own changing world. Vibrant watercolor illustrations from award-winning artist Aries Cheung add humor and a lovely dash of zip to Anew's adventures.

THE ADVENTURES OF CATERPILLAR JONES animates one of life's most inspiring experiences. Transitions move our soul into a spacial quality within us uniting our human nature to the divine. Thanks for connecting these qualities within us through the use of this wonderful story. -- Samuel Oliver, author of, WHAT THE DYING TEACH US: LESSONS ON LIVING.

I have read this book to my children 7, 5, & 2. They adore the characters, and the story line keeps them excited to read and hear more. In this day and age of loud music, violent T.V., and video games that seem so real, but bring no rewarding value, then comes The Adventures of Caterpillar Jones. This is a book your family will read over and over again. A children's novel that will become a masterpiece and a must have for every childs library. My only wish is they might someday make this into a feature animation. : )

I really enjoyed reading this book with my nieces and nephews. Even though it's targeted to their age group, I found myself just as enthused as they were. I'd read it again.

Eric C Orleman has produced a superb collection of photos and written a great text to tell the story of the greatest construction equipment manufacter on earth. The only possible hangup is the book is so big, it won't fit on a standard shelf. You'll just have to leave it on the coffee table to torment the misses!

Caterpillar Chronicle is another Eric Orlemann book that has hit the mark with pinpoint precision. Using his usual perfection and attention to small detail, Eric will take from the start with Holt and Best through today. To any person interested in the big iron this book will not disapoint.

The section on the development of the hi-drive D10 is full of information on how it was done and just what a gamble it was for Cat.

Prototypes-What an assortment. It's amazing to see all the different things that go on in product development, from the hi-drive D9G test machine to the mobil-trac batmobiles. Included in this section are numerous pictures of things that Cat tried and scrapped. Some of these contraptions make the hi-drive idea look tame.

Each turn of the page brings a new treat of Cat yellow. Some models you may have seen or even operated, and others you may never see but in pictures. A true pleasure.

If heavy equipment is your hobby, and Eric's name is on the cover, BUY THE BOOK!

Once again, Eric Orlemann has come up with the goods. "Caterpillar Chronicle" is a superbly illustrated volume full of wonderful photographs of all kinds of Caterpillar Machinery. A fan of Caterpillar for years, I found it a joy to turn each page in anticipation, to be rewarded with another stunning photograph.

From the "Best Steamer" to the massive Caterpillar 797 dump truck, "Caterpillar Chronicle" contains something for everyone who ever loved Caterpillar machinery. I found the photographs of the prototypes and pre-production machines especially interesting. To trace the history of the famous Cat D10 tractor through its development is one of the highlights of the book. I am sure that one could write a whole book devoted to the prototypes, one offs and the concepts that never made it to production.

The text is well written and tells the story of the history of these machines well, with lots of detail. The large format of the book is great, as well as its quality. Well bound and protected by its hard cover, it will be the centre of my collection for many years, and last as long as these wonderful machines.

chrisf@nextbyte.com.au

This has been my 18-month-old son's favorite book for 8 months straight, and I can't recommend it highly enough. The illustrations are drenched with rich color, plus the story is interesting and fun for a toddler (and doesn't drive a parent crazy over the thousands of repeat readings). My son goes wild with excitement when he sees bees, ladybugs and butterflies outside, recognizing them from his book. Another advantage-- the pages are very thick and durable, perfect for a toddler's zealous page-turning. This is a can't-miss buy, for your own child or for a gift.

This has been my daughter's favorite book since she was 9 months old. She is 20 months old now and she still pulls it out of the book bin every night. The pictures aare simple, colorful and cute. The story is short and sweet. We also found finger puppets of flowers, bees, ladybugs and butterflies to use with the book. I also buy this book for all of my friends. This is definately one of the best book for children 9 months to age 3.

This has been a favorite of my daughter's since she was tiny. The pages are saturated with color, and it was an easy book for her to memorize (important in early stages of reading). She "reads" it to me still. We have a butterfly garden too, so she can understand this book and relate it to real life. My only complaint (for all the other science buffs out there) is that they refer to the caterpillar's chrysalis as a cocoon and while most people wouldn't notice, being a butterfly fanatic I wanted to write the publisher! (technically, moths make cocoons and butterflies have chrysalids) I know, it's silly, and no reason to avoid this book- it's my number one gift for toddlers now.

Holly Keller's story of growing up and changing is a fantastic story wrapped in beautiful watercolor illustrations. She weaves the story of everlasting friendship that we all long for and cherish in a charming and simple way. Keller's accomplishments include more than 30 books that she has written with "as many illustrated (that were) written by other people." It's easy to see why she has accomplished so much. I love this book.
Keller's story opens with little Farfallina, a caterpillar, munching on a leaf during a gentle spring rain. Her munching disturbs a handsome gosling that quickly befriends the caterpillar. Despite the fact that they make an unlikely pair, they become the warmest of friends. Their friendship is rocked by separation however when one day Farfallina must rest. For weeks she is gone and Marcel realizes that he must grow up without her. A happy reunion finds them still fast friends despite the growth and change each has had to face.
The illustrations in this book are fantastic. Kellers use of watercolors, is alive with bold vibrant colors that capture the attention of any reader. Her pictures are incredibly cute and resemble the sweet friendship Marcel and Farfallina share. Keller's illustrations encourage readers to peruse each page liesurely. I have always loved finding hidden pictures, and although Keller does not necessarily intend this, children can look for Farfallina's cocoon in the tree tops or note the changes in Marcel's feathers. Without the pictures, the story wouldn't be the same.
I look forward to sharing this book with little ones during story time at the public library. Allowing the children the opportunity to visualize the colorful pictures as this heartwarming story is told will truly be a pleasure. I hope that they enjoy the story as much as I have. I've added it to my wish list and look forward to giving a second copy to my nieces.

I used this with my class (3-5 year olds) and they sat so still, they really loved the book. The story is heartwarming and the illustrations make you love the characters.

I teach a class of 3 to 5 year olds and I found this book as a
supplement to my "Growing" unit. My class sat so still (I didn't know they could sit so still!) and it gave me the opportunity to launch into my "growing" unit! Fabulous book, beautiful pictures, gently touches upon growing and changing.

This story is written using sophisticated rhymes and tells a funny story most kids will identify with. My son asked to have this book read to him every night for weeks, and the clever writing kept it fun for me. I even memorized the book for car rides. It is definately one of my favorite books in his library.

I am 4 years old and I like this book the best because they have a pillow fight. I like the pictures very much. The callerpittars are so funny. You should read this book.

Caterpillow Fight is not only a great bedtime story but is quite charming. Is a tongue-tiwster at times. There is also a lesson at the end of this story which is a great learning experience. My 4-year granddaughter eagerly looked forward to hearing this story and rapidly learned to read it by herself due to the wonderful illustrations. The use of animals in realistic story matters are a great asset for young children. This book delivers all.

My opinion about Charlie The Caterpillar is that I liked it a lot. For English class I had to read three childrens books, and write a review on each one. This book is by far my favorite book. I loved each part about it. I like the way the book was set up, and how it coordinated each other. The illustrations by Christopher Santoro, are really good, just like it was real. The book isnt as easy to start kids out to read but it is a fun, bed time story. In conclusion I really really like this book and in my opinion there should be more books just like this one.

I fell in love with this book several years ago when I bought it for my step-kids. We loved the illustrations and the story was great. Now, my toddler (almost 3) wants me to read this book to her almost every night. She especiallys loves the "wallpaper" page of Charlie doing various stunts. I highly recommend this book to parents who love to read to their kids.

As a first grade teacher, I understand the importance of reading to children as often as possible. My class adored Charlie the Caterpillar and the simple explanation about its life cycle. Also, I believe it's a great tool to teach the value of real friendship. My students were mesmerized with the colorful illustrations and the fuzzy, adorable character. Charlie the Caterpillar is by far my favorite children's book in my own classroom library!

The only complaint I have about this book is that the caterpillar disappears into a chrysalis -- not a cocooon. The last Painted Lady butterflies we had (a watch-your-caterpillar-change-into-a-butterfly kit) all spun cocoons - no chrysalis!

I am the director of a lower school (pre-k-2nd) and we have used this book for years. It is the perfect way to introduce children to the wonderful world of metamorphosis. And if you can also actually get the Painted Lady Butterflies and "grow" them in your class, it is an invaluable experience. We have our children keep journals and then buy them each a copy of this great book (it's cheap in paperback) and they get to keep the experience forever. One correction to another review: painted ladies and all butterflies do spin chrysalids, not cocoons. They look similar, but the chrysalis usually has little specks of gold in it, which is where the name comes from. Yes I am a huge fan of this book--and a huge fan of butterflies. This author also has a lovely book about honeybees, called Honeybees.

We got this book in addition to a home "Butterfly Pavillion" by InsectLore. It prepared my son and us for what to expect as the Painted Lady Butterflies were developing through each stage. So even during the lulls in the action, we could spark some anticipation. Which heightened the whole process for my 5 year old.
We also found out this book is used at his kindergarten for their butterfly learning.
This is the first Let's-Read-And-Find-Out book we've bought and were impressed enough to want to get the other books in the series.

This book touches beyond the basics of letters forming words, and those words making sentences. More importantly, it shows us that all things must work together to obtain harmony. This book is an excellent example of teamwork, and without it, these letters and words could not have done or accomplished anything on their own. What an example to teach our youth of America. I highly recommend this book for everyone.

The Alphabet Tree is a wonderful spring board book to help emergent readers understand the importance of putting letters together to create words. I have used this book as an addition to other ABC books at the beginning of the school year for 1st grade children. They were excited and immediatly suggested ways that they could make words. Our classroom now has our own "Alphabet Tree" that the children put together. This is an excellent teaching tool.

I first discovered this book 29 years ago as a student teacher. I was thrilled to discover that it is back in print. Leo Lionni demonstrates for the young learner that letters make words and words make sentences. This book is especially useful in a classroom where phonemic spelling is encouraged. I recommend The Alphabet Tree to every Kindergarten teacher.