Curious George Swings into Spring

PreS-Gr 2—When a plumbing problem forces the temporary evacuation of the apartment building where George and the Man with the Yellow Hat live, they decide to spend time at their country house. The doorman must stay behind, but his dachshund, Huntley, heads to the country with George and his friend. George's makes it his mission to show the order loving city pooch the wonders of spring, and he plans many adventures to highlight its joys. Predictably, each outing ends in a small disaster with Huntley falling in mud or getting pelted with acorns. Meanwhile, the town is preparing for their annual hot air balloon rally. On rally day, George accidentally launches all the unpiloted balloons with himself aboard, and Huntley gets lost. The friends are reunited as the balloons head toward the city and are captured by Huntley's doorman and his friend. There are many enjoyable side stories: the doorman is in competition with the female doorman from across the street for the "springiest" building, and their friendship blossoms; in a story that parallels the friendship of George and Huntley, two children learn that fun plus seriousness make for a winning combination. The film features high quality animation, amusing characters, a lively soundtrack, and spot-on narration. This upbeat celebration of spring is sure to please children.—Constance Dickerson, Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library, OH