A Fateful Escape
Hans and Margret Rey, both German Jews, fled Paris just days before the Nazis took the city in June 1940. As the couple escaped on handmade bicycles, they carried with them the manuscript that would become Curious George. After weeks of perilous travel, they reached safety in Lisbon and eventually sailed to New York.
George’s Journey
Once in America, their manuscript was recognized by Houghton Mifflin’s editor, who saw potential in George’s playful adventures. The mischievous monkey, initially called “Fifi,” was renamed George and soon became a global favorite.
An Enduring Story
Curious George resonated across generations, as the books showed the monkey’s innocent curiosity and the unexpected help he receives. With over 75 million copies sold worldwide, George’s adventures still captivate audiences, a true story of creativity born from survival.
How Curious George Fled the Nazis
A Fateful Escape
Hans and Margret Rey, both German Jews, fled Paris just days before the Nazis took the city in June 1940. As the couple escaped on handmade bicycles, they carried with them the manuscript that would become Curious George. After… pic.twitter.com/yLawH3Coys— Detective Tiger’s Stories (@TigerDetective) October 5, 2024