Summary: Curious George the monkey was invited to a pizza party and was so excited! But before the kids had a chance to make their own pizzas George rolls out all of the dough and cuts it up into different shapes, it turns out that everyone loved George's shapes and they all got to make very interestingly shaped pizza!
Genre: Fantasy
Media: Watercolor

Summary of Book: Curious George is a silly little monkey who finds his way into a pizza shop. He decides to try his hand at making some pizzas by himself while the owner is occupied. He makes a mess and the owner is furious so George runs and hides in a truck. He gets trapped inside and found by the owner when he arrives at the factory to make a pizza delivery. Turns out George was able to help deliver the pizza because the gate was closed. This makes the owner happy and in turn he is rewarded with a special pizza.

Personal Reaction: First of all this book made me crave some fresh pizza. I enjoyed this story because it makes me want to get up and cook. The story is kind in that even though the monkey messed up he can be forgiven. Children can really relate to this story because they are still learning right from wrong and their heart can totally be in the right place when they mess up. It is important for them to learn how to take responsibility for their actions, but also know that we all mess up and they are still loved.

Classroom Extension: This book would be great for a home economics class. It could get the kids excited about making pizza as it shows the process. The book is also good about warning the kids to be careful and make sure they do not fling dough all over the place. Another way to use this book could be to encourage students to help people like George did as he delivered the pizza for the man. Also this book could be used to start a conversation about nutrition, having a job, time management, or being responsible.

For young pre-K children, Curious George gets in trouble making pizzas. Such a cute book anyone could enjoy. Could be use to teach rules.

Media: Oils
Use: Curiosity, Making your own pizza
Critique: George is alway searching for some way to meet his curiosity. Throughout this story he causes many problems but in the end helps someone out. However, it is hard to judge his character because in all the stories he is very curious but in the end redeems himself. This is a good fantasy story because a monkey would not normally live with a person and would definitely not be allowed in a pizza parlor. ( )