Surprises According to Humphrey

By: Betty G. Birney

Narrated by: Hal Hollings

The fourth book in the beloved and award-winning school hamster series!

A classroom hamster has to be ready for anything, but suddenly there are LOTS-LOTS-LOTS of big surprises in Humphrey's world. Some are exciting, like a new hamster ball. But some are scary, like a run-in with a cat and a new janitor who might be from another planet. But even with all that's going on, Humphrey finds time to help his classmates with their problems. But will Mrs. Brisbane's unsqueakable surprise be too much for Humphrey to handle?

Look for all twelve of Humphrey's adventures!

Critic reviews

“Humphrey, a delightful, irresistible character, is big hearted, observant, and creative.” —Booklist on The World According to Humphrey

“Humphrey is a witty, fun, and lovable character with great kid appeal.” —School Library Journal on Surprises According to Humphrey

“This thoughtful yet upbeat tale lends credence to the notion that actions and intentions can be misinterpreted while pointing out the benefits of looking at a situation from another’s point of view. Readers will find that seeing the world from Humphrey’s standpoint is mighty satisfying.” —Kirkus Reviews on Friendship According to Humphrey

“Narrated in Humphrey’s lively voice, the story is characteristically amusing and incorporates kid-relevant issues, such as being the last chosen for sports teams and the importance of respect, support, kindness, and appreciation. New and returning readers will enjoy the caring hamster’s unique perspective on everything from friendship to fire drills.” —Booklist on Surprises According to Humphrey

“Humphrey is just as lovable and sweet as he was in Friendship According to Humphrey. His escapades teach honesty, responsibility, and the consequences of actions.” —School Library Journal on Trouble According to Humphrey


Look for all of the books in the series!
The World According to Humphrey
Friendship According to Humphrey
Trouble According to Humphrey
Surprises According to Humphrey
Adventure According to Humphrey
Summer According to Humphrey
School Days According to Humphrey
Mysteries According to Humphrey
Winter According to Humphrey
Secrets According to Humphrey
Imagination According to Humphrey
Spring According to Humphrey
Happiness According to Humphrey - new in 2024!

Super fun and surprising book

This book is super cute I love the Humphrey books but this one is my favorite. I like the narrators voice and how it sounds like a real hamster. Overall this book is really good.thanks!

simple story that is engaging and fun for kids

my kids and I like it so much that we listen to it again and again

The story was amazing

Everything was amazing and the voice was incredible too. The story is me favorite in the series

The great voice actor.

I love everything in the book! And I don’t dislike anything to! It is such a good BOOK!! I have also listened to every single other book to.

Kept my interest

I loved this book! It was so interesting and it really paints a picture in your mind.

I suggest that anyone who is looking for a fun and exciting book, the Humphrey series is the way to go.

😀😀😀😀