Who Were Eric Carle’s Parents, Erich Carle & Johanna Carle?

Eric Carle was born to Erich and Johanna Carle, both of whom were German immigrants. His father, Erich W. Carle, worked as a civil servant. The family moved from Syracuse, New York, to Stuttgart, Germany, when Eric was six years old due to his mother’s homesickness for their homeland.

Growing up in Germany during World War II, Eric faced significant challenges. His father was drafted into the German army and was later taken prisoner by Soviet forces. He returned home in 1947, profoundly affected by his experiences.

Despite the hardships, Eric Carle found solace in art, encouraged by a dedicated teacher who introduced him to modern and expressionistic art during a time when the world around him was bleak.

After graduating from the Academy of Fine Arts Stuttgart in 1950, Carle longed to return to the United States. He finally made it back in 1952 with a portfolio and just $40, eventually finding work as a graphic designer at The New York Times.

Eric Carle’s early life experiences, coupled with the strong influence of his parents, shaped his artistic vision and storytelling ability, which later culminated in his beloved children’s books.