Classroom pets have a view of a classroom like no other. A view that many of us would like to see. Thanks to a cute hamster named Humphrey, we get this chance. These are wonderful books to be read aloud. Each chapter is episodic and leaves the children wanting more. Each chapter is also ends with a useful tip from Humphrey himself. The author is Betty G. Birney.
Plotline
The first book in the series introduces us to Humphrey, Mrs. Brisbane (the teacher) and a cast of characters including classmates, Mr. Morales the principal and even the lovable school custodian Aldo. Through Humphrey's eyes we learn about how what we see at school is a reflection of what may be going on at home. Humphrey narrates the story between days in the classroom and weekend visits at home with one of the students. Humphrey is quite a problem solver too. Using "the lock that doesn't lock" he is able to help his human friends with their troubles.
In book 2, Friendship According to Humphrey, there is a new classroom pet. Humphrey is at first very jealous of his new classroom companion, but soon learns how to make friends. Humphrey also continues his weekend visits to the classmates' homes and helps them with their friendship problems as well.
The adventures continue in the third book, Trouble According to Humphrey. Humphrey's favorite student friend "Golden Miranda" is blamed when Humphrey is found outside of his cage. The trouble continues as "Don't Complain Mandy Payne" tries to get Humphrey banished from the classroom forever.
