By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: October 15, 2009
More Horrid Henry? Yes, more twisted, laugh-out-loud Horrid Henry stories. Francesca Simon’s has perfectly executed her characters, again! Horrid Henry is a rotten, little devil. His persona represents the thoughts which go through most kids minds, at least occasionally. Perfect Peter’s character provides a blameless example of how different siblings can be and the rivalry that comes along with that. I also enjoy the subtle way that Francesca Simon’s involves the parents. She shows readers that Henry has absolutely no-idea of the effort that goes into being a parent. There are some truly priceless moments which are emphasized by Tony Ross’ wonderfully ghastly illustrations.
Warning: These books contain first-rate silliness that may cause fits of laughter and have been known to split one’s sides.
Horrid Henry and the Scary Sitter
by Francesca Simon (Author), Tony Ross (Illustrator)
Reading level: Ages 7-10
Paperback: 112 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky (September 1, 2009)
Horrid Henry and the Scary Sitter is here just in time for Halloween. As per usual, he is up to no good, providing mischievous ideas for young trick-or-treaters — or showing kids how not to behave, if that’s what you prefer. He has an encounter with a “Scary Sitter” who may prove to be a good match for Henry’s awful ways, or not; a battle between boys and girls that almost has Henry and Peter working together as friends, but not quite; and goes on a long family car trip that is about as enjoyable as being stuck in an elevator for hours-on-end with the most annoying person you could imagine.
Add this book to your collection: Horrid Henry and the Scary Sitter
Horrid Henry’s Underpants
by Francesca Simon (Author), Tony Ross (Illustrator)
Reading level: Ages 7-10
Paperback: 112 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky (September 1, 2009)
What do vegetables, underpants, letters, and feeling sick have in common? Not much, but they are the basis behind this gut-busting next addition to the series. Horrid Henry’s Underpants has to be one of my favorite stories from this particular collection; I don’t think any reader could keep a straight face the moment that Horrid Henry discovers he mistakenly put on frilly, pink, girls underwear before leaving for school. The rest of the collection may have been written wittily for children, but certainly provide total parent satisfaction. Parents will appreciate the story of Henry eating vegetables, well, pretending to eat vegetables; the sick day that involves the whole family; and the thank you letter writing; none of which end in Henry’s favor. I recommend this particular collection for a very fun family read.
Add this book to your collection: Horrid Henry’s Underpants
You may enjoy reading our review of the first book in the series: Horrid Henry
You may also like the following series: Nicholas in Trouble by Rene Goscinny, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules by Jeff Kinney , or, Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes.
