Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
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4 stars
31(31%)
3 stars
35(35%)
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100 reviews
July 15,2025
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A nice blend of illustrations, WWII history, and biography awaits within the pages of this book.

It is truly a delight to read a tale that focuses on real people. One can easily imagine that older children would take great pleasure in learning the history of Curious George and the fascinating journey that led to his creation.

This book could prove to be excellent for teaching illustrated biographies to students.

Ideal for being read to grades 3-6, it requires some sense of history and geography to fully grasp. With many words on each page, older readers can absolutely appreciate the depth and detail that the book offers.

Overall, it is a wonderful resource that combines education and entertainment in a seamless manner.
July 15,2025
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Thanks to Donalyn Miller for this recommendation.

It is a truly fascinating tale that tells us about how Margret and H.A. Rey had to flee Europe during WWII.

The book is filled with a great deal of information. It details the challenges and difficulties they faced during their escape.

We can imagine the fear and uncertainty that must have accompanied them as they made their way through the chaos of war.

The story not only provides a historical account but also gives us a glimpse into the lives and emotions of the characters.

It is a captivating read that will keep you engaged from start to finish.

Whether you are interested in history or simply enjoy a good story, this book is definitely worth checking out.

July 15,2025
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I had the pleasure of reading the paperback edition of this remarkable book. Sadly, there were no actual ticket stubs included.

The story within its pages was not only exciting but also unbelievably true. The author has masterfully crafted this narrative in a way that makes it easily accessible to readers around Grades 4 - 6. These young readers, who may not have an in-depth knowledge of the history of World War II, can effortlessly understand the experiences of Margret and H.A. Rey. As the Germans advanced closer to Paris and the Reys realized they had to flee, the readers can vividly picture the紧张 and perilous situation they were in.

Moreover, the inclusion of primary sources in this book makes it a valuable mentor text for historical research. It provides young minds with a practical example of how to conduct research and use primary sources to tell a story. Overall, this is a wonderful nonfiction narrative that is sure to engage the curious minds of those who loved Curious George. It offers both entertainment and education, making it a must-read for any young history enthusiast.
July 15,2025
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A quick read - I have a deep affection for Curious George. I adored him during my childhood and now I have been reading his adventures to my son. Additionally, I teach the Holocaust Unit every year, except for this one. So, when I came across this book, I was truly intrigued! It is a very interesting read that tells the story of two German Jewish artists who narrowly escaped all the horrors of Hitler. The book is written at a reading level suitable for 3rd - 7th graders. It presents a lot of information about WWII in a friendly and understandable way. Given the knowledge of what happened during the Holocaust, it is truly a miracle that they managed to get out when they did.

However, there is only one question that remains unanswered for me: Why did they change the monkey's name from Fifi to Curious George? This mystery has piqued my curiosity and I hope to find out the reason behind this name change in the future.
July 15,2025
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So cute and fun!

I truly loved learning about H.A. Rey's and his wife's remarkable bicycle escape from Paris. Their journey was not only a thrilling adventure but also a testament to their courage and determination.

Coming to the U.S. as refugees, they faced many challenges and uncertainties. However, their story also highlights the importance of refugees.

Refugees bring with them unique cultures, skills, and perspectives that enrich the countries they seek asylum in. They contribute to the economy, society, and the arts.

Understanding and supporting refugees is crucial in building a more inclusive and compassionate world. We should listen to their stories, offer them a helping hand, and ensure that they are treated with dignity and respect.

H.A. Rey's and his wife's story is just one example of the many inspiring tales of refugees. It reminds us that everyone has a story worth hearing and that we have a responsibility to make the world a better place for all.
July 15,2025
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A truly wonderful book awaits, one that has the remarkable ability to bring the life during World War 2 into vivid and full color. It is filled with captivating small details that add depth and authenticity to the story. Just imagine the Reys, pedaling their bikes on the cobblestone streets of Paris, their hearts pounding with fear and determination as they strive to escape the city. The scene is painted so vividly that you can almost hear the clatter of the bike wheels on the uneven stones. And then, there they are, pulling into New York harbor on a cold October morning. The Statue of Liberty looms large in the distance, a symbol of hope and freedom. This moment is so powerful that it makes the entire story come to life in the most extraordinary way. It's a journey that takes you from the chaos and danger of war-torn Paris to the promise and possibility of a new beginning in America. This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to experience the history and emotions of WW2 in a truly unique and unforgettable way.

July 15,2025
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This book is likely aimed at the youth market. However, as an adult, I still found it quite interesting.

It vividly describes the lives of H.A. and Margaret Rey before World War II. It also documents their hasty flight from Paris in the early days of the war.

The book is written in a simplistic manner, but it enhances the story with relevant photos and artwork of the Reys. Additionally, it includes original artwork in the style of Curious George illustrations.

This combination of text and visuals makes the book engaging and accessible. It provides a unique perspective on the Reys' lives and the historical context in which they lived.

Overall, it is a well-done book that can be enjoyed by readers of all ages.
July 15,2025
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It was an interesting book indeed.

I managed to learn about the Reys' life and the fascinating development of Curious George. However, it was rather challenging to see the illustrations and documents clearly in the e-book format.

Moreover, I have a thought that perhaps it would have been more beneficial if I hadn't chosen the Young Readers Edition. I suspect that the adult edition might have provided a more in-depth account of their journey.

I'm not entirely certain how this particular edition would be received by young readers. I personally enjoyed reading it since I had a great love for these books during my childhood. But here's a question: are Curious George books still popular nowadays?

Maybe middle school children might pick up the book if they were studying the Holocaust, as there could be some relevant aspects to explore.

Someday in the future, I truly hope to get my hands on the adult version and have a more comprehensive reading experience.
July 15,2025
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Archival research, history, and storytelling can form a truly good combination. Archival research provides the raw materials, the facts and details that are hidden within the old documents and records. History gives context and meaning to these findings, helping us to understand the events and trends that have shaped our world. And storytelling brings it all to life, making the past accessible and engaging for a wider audience.



When these three elements are combined effectively, we can create a powerful narrative that not only informs but also entertains. We can use archival research to uncover new perspectives on well-known historical events, or to shed light on forgotten stories. History can help us to place these stories in a broader context, showing how they fit into the larger arc of human history. And storytelling can make these stories come alive, using vivid language and engaging characters to draw the reader in and keep them hooked.



In conclusion, the combination of archival research, history, and storytelling is a valuable one. It allows us to explore the past in new and exciting ways, and to share our findings with others in a way that is both informative and entertaining. Whether we are writing a historical novel, a documentary film, or a non-fiction book, this combination can help us to bring the past to life and make it relevant to the present.

July 15,2025
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Reread. One of the most haunting aspects of World War II and the Holocaust is the lost potential of the millions who were murdered. It is truly a tragic and heart-wrenching reality. However, there are also stories of hope and survival that emerge from this dark period. Louise Borden chronicles the escape of Margret and H.A. Rey, which is a remarkable tale. They were able to escape with their lives and their art, defying the odds and the horror that surrounded them. Borden's research is brilliant, and the design of the book is pleasing, introducing readers to many of the Reys' lesser known characters, as well as the beloved Curious George. It offers a unique perspective on this historical era and the power of art and determination in the face of adversity.

July 15,2025
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This is an extremely interesting story.

I am truly amazed that Curious George managed to reach publication at all.

While the story itself has its charm, I do have a few wishes regarding the presentation of the information within the book.

I just wasn't a big fan of the way it was written.

The small format in which the letters from the Rey's were shown in the margins was also a bit of a drawback for me.

I really wish that those tidbits had been large enough to read easily.

Alternatively, it would have been great if they could have been typed next to the graphic, making it more convenient for the reader to access and understand.

Overall, despite these minor issues, the story of Curious George remains an engaging and beloved one.
July 15,2025
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Margret and H.A. Rey have a truly wonderful biography. Their journey of beginning to write stories and experiencing romance is a captivating one. The research done on their escape from France during the war is extremely well-documented, adding depth and authenticity to their tale. Moreover, the illustrations in their works are of such high quality that they enhance the overall reading experience. And of course, we can't forget the star of their stories, Curious George. This little monkey has charmed generations of readers with his mischievous antics and endearing personality. The Reys' ability to create such a beloved character is a testament to their talent and creativity. Their work has left a lasting impact on the world of children's literature, and their biography is a must-read for anyone interested in their fascinating lives and contributions.

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