Based on the true behaviors of the hermit crab, young readers will empathize with Hermit Crab as he grows out of one house after another and searches for the perfect home. Children who must change schools, move to a new town, or even graduate to a new grade in school will relate to Hermit Crab's situation and take heart as they see that growing up isn't really so scary after all.

Eric Carle addresses the challenges of growing up with whimsy and wisdom in this modern...