Families who loved Curious George Goes Swimming by Margret Rey often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.

Reach for this book when your child is facing the first-day jitters of a new activity, specifically swim lessons or a trip to a community pool. This story follows George as he navigates the excitement of the water while helping his friend Lucy overcome her fear of getting in. It gently addresses the physical and emotional hurdles of learning a new skill through the lens of empathy and play. Parents will appreciate how the book balances the fun of summer with the importance of pool safety and following rules. It is an ideal choice for preschoolers and early elementary students because it validates their anxiety without being heavy handed. George's classic curiosity serves as a bridge, showing that even when we make mistakes, we can learn to be brave and helpful friends.