November 1, 2014
Gr 2-4-The students in Room 26 at Longfellow School are on their way to becoming writers. Mrs. Brisbane is encouraging them to use their imagination and fill in the blank to the sentence "If I could fly, I would _____." Humphrey, the class hamster, wants to try, too, but finds himself suffering from a case of writer's block. All around him, imaginations are soaring while his seems to have flown away. When not scribbling in his hamster-sized notebook, Humphrey sneaks out of his cage to visit another pet and spends the weekend at a classmate's home, where he tries to help with various problems. The theme of perseverance is prevalent throughout this pleasant early chapter book. It includes tips for budding writers and could spark a class discussion about inspiration. Purchase where "Humphrey" books are popular.-Beth Cuddy, Seward Elementary School, Auburn, NY
Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
July 1, 2015
Humphrey, a classroom hamster, writes his own stories during the creative writing unit. He helps some of the (human) students with their writing and with family struggles during his weekend visits to their homes. As with the earlier books in the series, Humphrey is a likable character and the (easily resolved) childhood conflicts will resonate with readers.
(Copyright 2015 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)