The Cranky Caterpillar

Ezra  is at a loose end. Wait – what is that noise coming from the piano? Ezra explores to find a very cranky caterpillar who complains that he has been stuck in the piano for a long time. How can Ezra cheer him up when nothing seems to work? Ezra has an idea…

There is a strong element of the surreal and perhaps a nod to Lewis Carroll, creator of the original grumpy caterpillar, in this enjoyable, quirky story about friendship and the transformative power of both music and working together. The narrative is concise and effective carrying the reader through the book, while a clever use of the font adds to the experience without detracting from clarity. Through his illustrations, Graham creates the perfect visual compliment to the text. His pen and ink outlines allow him to move between the impressionistic and the precise, capturing the imaginative setting and providing it with a perfect logic. Only Ezra brings colour to every spread; this is her story. Originally published in the US, this is a welcome addition to our bookshelves whether in the classroom (plenty to discuss) or at home. Recommended.