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The World According to Humphrey book cover
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Ages 7+1-min guideAnimalsSchoolKindness

The World According to Humphrey

by Betty G. Birney
Good fitA great fit for most kids 7 and up. A warm, funny classroom story told by the class hamster. A teacher’s husband is sad after an accident, but he cheers up.
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What it’s about

Humphrey is the class hamster in Room 26. Each weekend he goes home with a different student. He secretly slips out of his cage to help the people around him.

The ending

What might come up

Big feelingsA littleHumphrey misses Ms. Mac. Mrs. Brisbane’s husband is unhappy after an accident put him in a wheelchair.
Scary momentsA littleHumphrey sneaks out of his cage, and a big pet dog sniffs at him.
Mean adultsA littleThe teacher wants to get rid of Humphrey at first. Her husband calls him a 'rat.'
LanguageA littleOne 'dumb' and one 'jerk.' No swearing.
RomanceA littleAldo the janitor wants a girlfriend. He meets a woman named Maria and they go on a date.

Why kids like it

Humphrey is a funny, kind narrator, and his secret escapes from his cage are exciting.

Free printable quiz

  1. 1
    What is the number of Humphrey’s classroom?
  2. 2
    Who first brought Humphrey to the class?
  3. 3
    What costume does Humphrey wear on Halloween?
  4. 4
    What is the name of the night janitor?
If they liked this

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Parents also ask

Quick answers

Most kids can read it on their own from about age 7. As a read-aloud, it works from about age 6.