“Both Margret and Hans were creative and curious people-they explored life with their inquisitive minds. They were always learning new things, and they stepped out into a busy world with a smile, just like George.”
Who would’ve have known that the creators of Curious George escaped the dangers of World War II by fleeing Paris on BIKE (that he had put together and made himself!) This book, The Journey that Saved Curious George The True Wartime Escape of Margret and H.A. Rey by: Louise Borden, was incredible. I have such a deep appreciation for their courage, quest for adventure and love for children’s literature.
With three kids (4, 2 and 6months) we have watched and read a ton of Curious George. This was a fantastic read!
H.A Rey was born Hans Augusto Reyersback. He was working in Rio and Reyersbach was a hard name for Brazilians to pronounce. “Now that Hans was trying to earn money by drawing and painting large posters and maps, he began to sign his work “H. A. Rey.” It was much easier for clients in his new country. And…it was a name to remember.”
After traveling from Rio to Europe for their honeymoon, Margaret & Hans were only supposed to be in Paris for two weeks. They ended up staying for four years.
“The years were carefully recorded by Hans. Each day, he jotted down the places he and Margret visited, living expenses, and notes about his work. He filled page after page of his pocket calendar with his small, penciled script, writing words in French, English and German. then he added up monthly expenses in French francs.”
The book has snippets from H.A Rey’s calendar (with his daily notes) throughout. I loved this especially because I tend to journal my calendars, recording funny things my kids say, what I make for dinner, any interesting things that happen. It is a fun way to look back and remember the small joys amidst all the busyness.
Margaret Rey was integral to Hans and his work. She was an excellent critic and support to him. As a photographer and artist herself, her influence can not be understated. I am always intrigued by people’s childhoods. In this book it noted:
“Margarete and her two brothers and two sisters had a good life, full of comfort and culture and books. Margarete wanted to become an artist. Later she studied art and photography at a school in Germany: the famous Bauhaus.”
While living in Paris, “They sat at sidewalk tables with their friends, drank strong cups of coffee, and talked about their creative ideas as they watched the world move by.”
“It was hot in Brazil-so Hans wore a broad hat, even in the shade of Rio’s palm trees and cafes” Reminds me of someone…
On clear nights, he studied the stars and constellations. Hans was a deep thinker as well as an artist. Always, he was curious about the world.
I’m so glad I learned about their story, how two artists traveled the world, escaped the war and landed in New York City bringing to life a lovely little mischievous character, Curious George.
