By Eric Carle
Illustrated by Eric Carle

Dear Friends,

"My Apron" is a true story that happened when I was 8 years old. I had a couple of days off from school and visited my aunt Elizabeth and Uncle Adam. They had no children of their own and were happy to have me around. My aunt was as gentle and talkative as my uncle was gruff and tight-lipped. But when he did speak, his booming voice could be heard for miles! Yet underneath his roughness was a kind man. I had visited my relatives often before, but this was the first time that I noticed my uncle's apron. And right away I took a fancy to this big white apron with a pocket. I still remember how proud I was of my very own apron and how important I felt to help my uncle with his work.

Sincerely,
Eric Carle