Caterpillar Chryzzle

Ages 4 to 8, Grades P to 2

A caterpillar trusts its instincts and is rewarded with a new perspective on the world in this beautiful and simple ode to a butterfly’s metamorphosis.

So I’m chryzzaling and wonder where we’re heading, and what is the deeper meaning of it all.

Worm and caterpillar are best friends. But when caterpillar starts talking about a strange “chryzzaling” feeling and thinks it might soon change, worm can only giggle and shake its head. Caterpillar enters its chrysalis, but worm is impatient and crawls away. Worm therefore misses when a butterfly emerges and soars into the sky, finding a whole new view on life.

With beautiful watercolor illustrations that show how one’s perspective changes over time, this picture book is a poetic reminder of the beauty in trusting one’s feelings and not being afraid to fly to new heights.

About the Author

Andrew Bond grew up in DR Congo, in Yorkshire, UK, and from twelve years of age in Switzerland. After years of youth work and a theology degree, Andrew taught ethics, religion, and music at a secondary school before becoming a prolific singer-songwriter, musical producer, and author of books for children and families.

Julie Völk lives and works in Vienna, Austria. Her pictures tell stories about growing up, strange meetings, and unusual aspects of life; and her clear, delicate style combines realism with fantasy, which gives her illustrations a highly original atmosphere. In 2018 she was named an IBBY Honored Illustrator.