A man rushed out of the library, already lighting a cigarette before he even reached the door. Is this allowed? Since he was leaving the non-smoking area, does that mean he’s free to smoke?
The secondhand smoke filled the book drop-off area and lingered, thanks to the calm weather. It was really bothersome.
I recall seeing two “no smoking” signs at the entrance from the parking lot, though they seemed to serve little purpose in that moment.

“Giving up smoking is the easiest thing in the world. I know because I’ve done it thousands of times.”
Mark Twain
Smoking a cigarette is often more than just a habit—it’s an experience, a moment of pause in a busy world. The ritual of lighting the cigarette, inhaling the smoke, and exhaling in a steady rhythm can offer a brief sense of relief or reflection. Yet, despite its temporary satisfaction, smoking is a reminder of the ongoing health risks it poses, not only to the smoker but also to those around them through secondhand smoke. It’s a personal choice, but one with consequences, urging us to reconsider the impact on both our own well-being and the environment.
Further to my previous post: Will Curious George Ever Stop Smoking? Impacts & Ignorance
In earlier Curious George books, some illustrations feature characters smoking, a reflection of the time period when these stories were written. While the beloved little monkey and his adventures have remained timeless, these images now stand in stark contrast to modern attitudes toward smoking. Today, such depictions are often seen as outdated, as public awareness of the dangers of smoking has grown. These illustrations serve as a reminder of how much societal norms and cultural attitudes have evolved over the years, prompting a more health-conscious approach to media for children.