Happiness According to Humphrey
#13 of 13 in Humphrey Series
on Goodreads (63)
What’s inside...
Narrated by the ever-curious class hamster, Humphrey, this installment follows Room 26 at Longfellow School as Mrs. Brisbane launches a unit on what it means to be “truly happy.” Humphrey observes that some classmates—and even his best friend Og the frog—aren’t feeling very cheerful. Over a series of school-day adventures and weekend visits to children’s homes, Humphrey sets out to discover how kindness, gratitude and helping others can turn worries into smiles. His quiet interventions bring families closer, boost classroom spirit in time for Family Fun Night, and teach everyone (including one small hamster) that happiness often comes from caring for others.
Character compass
Humphrey
Miranda Golden
Aldo Amato
Og
Mrs. Brisbane
Discussion points
What does happiness mean to each character, and how does it change?
How do Humphrey’s small actions make a big difference?
When have you felt like Og—left out or lonely?
Why is gratitude important for happiness?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create a family happiness jar—adding notes after reading each chapter.
Role-play solving a classmate’s problem the way Humphrey might.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Helping others increases personal happiness.
Explanation: Humphrey feels happiest when solving classmates’ problems.
Real-World Application: Look for simple ways—like sharing a toy—to brighten a friend’s day.
Example Lesson: Gratitude changes perspective.
Explanation: Students keep journals that shift focus from worries to blessings.
Real-World Application: Write three good things that happened before bedtime.
Example Lesson: Teamwork overcomes disagreements.
Explanation: Room 26 merges ideas to create a successful booth.
Real-World Application: When siblings argue, brainstorm a solution that includes everyone’s ideas.