This summer, the Glazer Children’s Museum invites Tampa families to dive into the whimsical world of Eric Carle with the “Very Eric Carle: A Very Hungry, Quiet, Lonely, Clumsy, Busy Exhibit.” On display through Sept. 8, this enchanting exhibit brings the beloved author and illustrator’s vibrant stories to life, promising an unforgettable adventure for visitors of all ages, especially early readers.

“Very Eric Carle” is the first North American traveling exhibit inspired by Carle’s timeless works. As visitors step into the museum, they are transported into the colorful pages of Carle’s classic “Very” series, which introduces five unique insects embarking on their own journeys of discovery. Each story is a celebration of nature, friendship, creativity and the boundless power of imagination.

Patel Conservatory dancers perform as baby mice in Next Generation Ballet's production of Nutcracker.

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Children can become part of the story by following the Very Hungry Caterpillar’s path, weaving webs with the Very Busy Spider, finding light with the Very Lonely Firefly, flipping and jumping with the Very Clumsy Click Beetle, and composing a night symphony with the Very Quiet Cricket.

The exhibit also offers opportunities for kids to create their own artwork using Carle’s signature collage technique.

The exhibit is a delight for the senses, with vibrant colors and captivating textures that mirror Carle’s iconic illustrations. Each interactive station not only ignites creativity and imagination, but also fosters a love of reading and storytelling.

The gallery of prints from the “Very” book series adds an educational element, allowing families to explore the depth and beauty of Carle’s art.

We had the pleasure of speaking with Bharat Chhabria, whose family generously sponsored the “Very Eric Carle” exhibit. Here’s what he had to say about their involvement and love for Eric Carle’s work.

What inspired your family to sponsor this exhibit?

Bharat Chhabria: Eric Carle’s stories have been a cherished part of our family for years. His books are not only inspiring to young readers but also carry important messages about nature, friendship and creativity. When we heard about the opportunity to bring this exhibit to the Glazer Children’s Museum, we knew it was a perfect way to share the magic of Eric Carle’s world with our community.

Do you have a favorite Eric Carle book?

Bharat Chhabria: It’s hard to pick just one, but the Very Hungry Caterpillar holds a special place in our hearts. The story’s simplicity and beautiful illustrations make it timeless. Watching the caterpillar’s transformation is a wonderful metaphor for growth and change, which resonates with children and adults alike.

What do you hope families will take away from visiting the exhibit?

Bharat Chhabria: We hope that families will leave with a renewed sense of wonder and appreciation for storytelling. The interactive nature of the exhibit encourages children to engage with the stories in a hands-on way. We want kids to feel inspired to read more and explore their own creativity, and the Glazer Children’s Museum is the perfect place for them to do that.

The “Very Eric Carle” exhibit at the Glazer Children’s Museum is a must-visit destination this summer. Don’t miss the chance to immerse your family in the enchanting world of Eric Carle, where every page turned brings new adventures and endless inspiration.