H. A. Rey (1898

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Biography

H. A. Rey was a German-born American illustrator and author, known best for the series of children's picture books that he and his wife Margret Rey created about Curious George.

Timeline

The story of H. A. Rey, told in moments.

1898 Birth

Born Hans Augusto Reyersbach in Hamburg. He lived near the Hagenbeck Zoo and spent hours watching the animals. He could draw monkeys before he could write his name.

Did watching monkeys at the zoo as a child lead to Curious George? Could you really draw monkeys before you could write?

1935 Event

Married Margret Waldstein in Rio de Janeiro. They shared a birthday, a love of animals, and the ability to draw. They started making children's books together.

What was making children's books together in Brazil like? Was Margret your equal or your collaborator?

1940 Event

Fled Paris on homemade bicycles as the German army approached. They carried the manuscript of Curious George in their bags. They were German Jews with Brazilian passports. They made it to Lisbon.

What was it like fleeing Paris with a monkey manuscript on a homemade bicycle? Did you know those pages would matter?

1941 Event

Curious George published in America. A little monkey who gets into trouble because he can't stop investigating things. The book sold millions. It's still in print.

What makes a monkey who can't stop investigating things so universally beloved? Is George you?

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