Reading Metrics
Description
Henry and Henrietta learn not to be embarrassed about their parents.
Quick Summary
Allan Ahlberg has a gift for taking something kids already feel embarrassment about their parents and spinning it into something so silly they can't help but laugh. Henry and Henrietta's mom and dad are literally horses (the kids are half-human, half-horse, which is never explained and doesn't need to be), and the story follows them as they navigate the social minefield of having, let's say, unusual parents. The humor is gentle and warm rather than chaotic, making this a great pick for kids who like stories that are funny without being frantic. It's short enough for emerging readers to finish in one sitting, but memorable enough they'll want to hear it again. If your kid loves Ahlberg's other gems like "The Giant Baby" or "The Wrong Trousers," they'll probably gravitate toward this one too. Parents will appreciate the sweet message underneath the silliness it gives you a nice opening to talk about accepting family quirks without being preachy about it.