Review Detail

“Here’s the thing with dreams, Henri. If you don’t chase them, they always get away.” So says Toad to his friend, Henri. Henri is a caterpillar who dreams of flying, and some of his friends tell him that he’s crazy, but Henri is determined.

As Henri sets off on his adventure in Clive McFarland’s CATERPILLAR DREAMS, he gets a bit of help from friends. They contribute using their special gifts: Bird carries him over a wall, Mole tunnels under the road to help him cross, and Fish gets him from one end of the lake to the other.

Being a caterpillar, Henri’s adventure involves a cocoon, and he eventually gets his wings and can fly. While finally achieving his ultimate dream and the freedom of flight, Henry also finds that the place he most wants to visit is, of course, home.

McFarland’s narrative is simple to follow and it isn’t bogged down by too many words. Henri’s story is one that will engage children while teaching a lesson about bravery, adventure, and the comfort of home. The illustrations are wonderful—and I think they’re the best part of a really wonderful book.

My thanks to YA Books Central and the publisher for an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honet review.