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Hans Augusto Rey, Margret Rey

Hans Augusto Rey and Margret Rey were a German-born American writing team that created the popular series of children's books featuring Curious George, a curious little monkey. They were both Jewish refugees from Germany who moved to Brazil then immigrated to the United States.

Quick Facts

  • Creators of the beloved children's character, Curious George.
  • Their works are published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.
  • The books have been translated into countless languages.
  • The Curious George book series has sold more than 30 million copies worldwide.
  • Curious George has been adapted into several television series and a feature film.
  • Received the Caldecott Honor for their illustrations in the Curious George series.

Background

Rey was born in 1898 in Hamburg, Germany. He met his wife Margret at her sister's birthday party in Germany. They both escaped Europe during World War II and moved to New York City. Originally, Hans was interested in photography and Margret wanted to be a writer, but they found they worked best creating children’s books together, with Margret writing the stories and Hans doing the illustrations. In 1941, they published their most famous work, "Curious George", the story of an adventurous little monkey. The book was a success and they continued to write and illustrate children’s books throughout their lives. Hans passed away in 1977 and Margret in 1996.

Writing Style and Impact

The writing style of Hans Augusto Rey and Margret Rey, creators of the popular series "Curious George," is characterized by its simplicity, lightheartedness and a sense of innocence. The narrative often revolves around simple adventures which are easy for young readers to follow. The Reys' work has been noted for its emphasis on curiosity, intelligence, and learning, sparking a love for reading in countless children worldwide. Their contribution to children's literature has been significant, providing kids with a lovable protagonist that encourages exploration and learning.

Notable Works

  • Curious George series (1941-1966)