2009-11-20 16:29:03 -

Gary Gentel, president, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Trade and Reference Publishers, released the following statement in support of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt's new Curious George book, Curious Baby, Curious George Counting — My First Book of Numbers.

"It has come to our attention that a concern has been raised about Curious Baby, Curious George Counting — My First Book of Numbers because it contains a rattle embedded within the text. As with all of our novelty products, this book was rigorously tested and has met all of the highest North American safety standards. The book was tested by a leading accredited independent laboratory, and was found to have satisfied all relevant safety requirements, including those covering small parts and choking hazards. It conforms

to the most up-to-date ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) standards as well as the requirements of the Federal Hazardous Substances Act and the CPSIA (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act).

"The bodies that have tested this book have determined it is perfectly suitable for infants and pre-school children.

"We take great pride in producing award-winning books with educational and entertainment value in mind and have always held ourselves and our books to the highest of standards in safety and quality."


About Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Boston-based Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company is a global education leader and the world's largest publisher of educational materials for pre-K–12 schools. The Company publishes a comprehensive set of best-in-class educational solutions, ranging from research-based textbook programs to instructional technology to standards-based assessments for students and educators. The Company also publishes an extensive line of reference works and award-winning literature for adults and young readers. With origins dating back to 1832, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt combines its tradition of excellence with a commitment to innovation. To learn more about Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, visit www.hmhpub.com : .


Houghton Mifflin HarcourtJosef Blumenfeld, 508-333-0938Vice
President, Communications josef.blumenfeld@hmhpub.com : mailto:josef.blumenfeld@hmhpub.com