Children's Lit Book Reviews

Summary: Curious George is a curious little monkey. He goes to a fire station and, being curious, he starts to try on or see everything in that he can reach. This creates some problems when the fire alarm rings and the firemen can't find their boots and coats because George has mixed them up. Finally, they go to the fire and George jumps on the truck with them. When he gets to the fire, he gets in the way, again curious. He is told to sit on the bench. He does for a minute then starts playing with the children who are watching the fire. He fins some balls in a bucket and starts juggling for the children, and they are not afraid of the fire any more. At the end, George is praised for helping keep the children calm, and they are all rewarded with a ride on the firetruck.
Who would benefit from reading this book?: It is a good book for children who are not paying attention and maybe a little bit too curious. But it will not discourage them from investigating. It is definitely for the beginning reader who can follow a relatively simple plot.
What problems/conflicts can this book potentially cause?: As with most beginning reader books, there is little conflict that I can see. Some parents might be concerned that George doesn't follow directions well and still doesn't get in trouble for failure to do so.
My Reaction: I feel that George is portrayed as being curious but also as good. The illustrations follow the story well and support the actions. The book shows the importance of paying attention to direction, trying new things, being brave, staying out of the way when dangerous things are going on, and that one is rewarded for doing good things.