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The Journey That Saved Curious George

by: Louise Borden  

Ages

9+
George was a good little monkey, but he was very curious. One day he noticed a PJ Our Way book with his very own picture on the cover… If you’re curious too, check out this story to discover how George (and his creators) came to America!
Ages 9+
Pages 96
Publisher Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Coming Feb 2024
Awards
American Library Association Notable Children's Book
Junior Library Guild Selection
Sydney Taylor Silver Medal Winner

Average Rating

67 Reviews
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What the Book is About

This is the true story of the exciting World War II escape of Margarete and Hans Reyersbach, the German-Jewish authors and illustrators of the beloved Curious George books. Illustrated with vintage photographs, clever drawings and excerpts from Hans’ own diary. Kids will be fascinated to learn that George was originally named Fifi, and that the Reys built their own bicycles from spare parts and rode across France for three days to catch a train and escape the Nazis. This short, interesting book is a fun choice for kids who loved Curious George. 

Jewish Content & Values

  • The book describes the life of Hans and Margarete Reyersbach, German-born Jewish refugees during World War II.

Positive Role Models

  • Margarete and Hans are a talented couple and work hard every day to create many children’s books together. Hans is a clever and resourceful man. He speaks many languages and loves animals.

Content Advisory

Although this book takes place during a difficult era for German Jews, it is a cheerful and upbeat story with a happy ending.     

Talk it Over!

Hans Reyersbach changed his name to H.A. Rey to make it easier for his clients in Brazil to order his artwork. Do you sometimes go by a nickname? Why or why not?

More for You

The Jewish nation has well earned the title of “the People of the Book,” particularly in the children’s books world. Among our favorite Jewish children’s authors: Louis Sachar, Judy Blume, Judith Kerr, Maurice Sendak, Jane Yolen, Ezra Jack Keats, and the ever elusive Lemony Snicket. 
What the Book is About

What the Book is About

This is the true story of the exciting World War II escape of Margarete and Hans Reyersbach, the German-Jewish authors and illustrators of the beloved Curious George books. Illustrated with vintage photographs, clever drawings and excerpts from Hans’ own diary. Kids will be fascinated to learn that George was originally named Fifi, and that the Reys built their own bicycles from spare parts and rode across France for three days to catch a train and escape the Nazis. This short, interesting book is a fun choice for kids who loved Curious George. 

Jewish Content & Values

  • The book describes the life of Hans and Margarete Reyersbach, German-born Jewish refugees during World War II.

Positive Role Models

  • Margarete and Hans are a talented couple and work hard every day to create many children’s books together. Hans is a clever and resourceful man. He speaks many languages and loves animals.

Content Advisory

Although this book takes place during a difficult era for German Jews, it is a cheerful and upbeat story with a happy ending.     

Talk it Over!

Hans Reyersbach changed his name to H.A. Rey to make it easier for his clients in Brazil to order his artwork. Do you sometimes go by a nickname? Why or why not?

More for You

The Jewish nation has well earned the title of “the People of the Book,” particularly in the children’s books world. Among our favorite Jewish children’s authors: Louis Sachar, Judy Blume, Judith Kerr, Maurice Sendak, Jane Yolen, Ezra Jack Keats, and the ever elusive Lemony Snicket.