The Very Hungry Caterpillar illustrative product image

Illustrative product imagery — verified product photography will be added when the catalogue is connected.

Books · Our review

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

★ 4.6 parent ratingReviewed for real-life use

Our rating

4.6 / 5

KidCritic Match™ is calculated only when you provide a shopping brief. It is a recommendation tool, not a safety or developmental certification.

Long-term re-review

Still worth it after 12 months? MOSTLY

The useful test is whether it keeps earning a place in the family routine after the first few weeks.

A practical editorial status based on the current product set, not a guarantee of future use.

Still a good classic for the shelf, particularly when its repetition and changing page shapes suit the child.

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Indicative price range only. These retailer links are covered by our affiliate disclosure; a commission may come from future links, and it does not change our editorial verdict.

The short version

Useful details before the unboxing.

Age: 2–5 years
Typical price: £6
Best for: A bright shared read with counting, sequencing and a strong visual hook.
Setup: Higher: allow time to set up and tidy
Screen-free: Yes
Educational angle: A useful prompt for questions, practice and shared attention
Durability: Editorial assessment: check materials and maker guidance
Value for Money: 5/5
12-month check: MOSTLY — The useful test is whether it keeps earning a place in the family routine after the first few weeks.

Our take

Why we like it

Still a good classic for the shelf, particularly when its repetition and changing page shapes suit the child.

What parents should know

Families wanting a completely no-setup option or a verified live listing. Check the maker’s age, safety and care guidance before use.

Pros

+ Memorable visual design
+ Good repetition
+ Grows with rereading

Cons

− Pages need care
− Often already owned

KidCritic verdict

Would we buy it?

YES · Still a good classic for the shelf, particularly when its repetition and changing page shapes suit the child.

Still a good classic for the shelf, particularly when its repetition and changing page shapes suit the child. This editorial call is here to add context, not to make the decision for your family.

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Better for younger/older children

The Little Maker Kit illustrative product image

Illustrative image

Editorial craft kit

Creative

The Little Maker Kit

£32indicative price

★ 4.1 Our rating4–8 yearsBest for Rainy afternoons and children who like making choices.

Still worth it after 12 months? MOSTLY

Still used for projects, but the best materials need topping up.

A genuinely open-ended craft box with enough materials to keep the first idea from being the last. It feels considered rather than overstuffed.

Good to know

+ No screen time
+ Excellent instructions

Watch for

− Some small pieces
− Consumables run out

Parent hassle: 2/5
Value: 4/5See this pick

Recommendation → see the retailer → you decide.

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