Hamster Princess: Whiskerella
#5 of 6 in Hamster Princess Series
on Goodreads (622)
What’s inside...
A funny, feminist twist on the Cinderella fairy tale for fans of fractured fairy tales. Princess Harriet Hamsterbone is not the kind of princess who enjoys fancy dresses or extravagant parties. Cliff-diving, fractions, and whacking people with swords are more her thing. So when she's forced to attend a boring ball in honor of a visiting ambassador, Harriet is less than thrilled--until a bewitchingly beautiful stranger arrives. Who is she? And where did she come from? The mystery leads to a not-so-wicked stepsister, an incontinent lizard, and a fairy's spell that's really more of a curse. Luckily, Harriet knows a thing or two about curses. Smart, funny, and filled with swashbuckling adventure, book five in the critically acclaimed Hamster Princess series is a hilariously re-told fairy tale for the modern age.
Character compass
Harriet Hamsterbone
Whiskerella
Fairy Godmouse
Discussion points
What do you think about Whiskerella’s courage and how she handles challenges? Can you think of a time you were brave like her?
Whiskerella makes some unusual friends in the story. Why do you think friendships with different kinds of people (or animals!) are important?
How does Whiskerella’s story change your thoughts about traditional fairy tales? What is different about her compared to other princess stories?
What would you do if you were in Whiskerella’s shoes at the royal ball? How would you help your friends if they were in trouble?
What did you learn from the story about being true to yourself?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare their own experiences with Whiskerella's, linking the themes of the book to their personal life.
Discuss the importance of diversity and acceptance, as illustrated by Whiskerella’s friendships, to broaden your child’s understanding of different perspectives.
Highlight the inversion of typical fairy tale roles in 'Hamster Princess: Whiskerella' and ask what your child thinks about this unique twist.
Use examples from the book to discuss problem-solving and how Whiskerella approaches challenges, encouraging your child to think about how they can tackle difficulties they face.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and self-empowerment
Explanation: The protagonist, Harriet, demonstrates courage by bravely facing challenges and solving problems throughout her adventures.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to believe in themselves and face their own challenges with bravery, fostering self-confidence and resilience.
Example Lesson: Importance of kindness and empathy
Explanation: Harriet consistently shows kindness to other characters, understanding their feelings and helping them when needed.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be empathetic towards others' feelings and the value of being kind, promoting a positive social environment.
Example Lesson: Challenging gender stereotypes
Explanation: Harriet breaks traditional gender roles by being a strong, adventurous princess who loves action and rescue missions.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect individuality and diversity, understanding that interests and abilities are not confined by gender.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout the book, Harriet encounters various obstacles which she overcomes using clever and creative solutions.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to think critically and creatively when faced with their own problems or challenges.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship
Explanation: The story emphasizes the importance of having good friends and working together to overcome difficulties.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by building strong, supportive relationships and learning the significance of teamwork.