Hamsters Make Terrible Roommates
by Cheryl B. Klein
illustrated by Abhi Alwar
Dial Books for Young Readers, 2021. 36 pages.
Review written December 11, 2021, from a library book
Starred Review
Here’s a funny picture book that teaches great things about conflict resolution and seeing another perspective.
We begin with a picture of two hamsters, one running in a wheel. The dark brown hamster introduces himself:
I’m Henry.
That’s Marvin.
We’re roommates. We’ve been roommates for two hundred and five days.
Henry is not happy about being Marvin’s roommate. Marvin talks all the time, and always wants attention. When Henry tries to hide in the bedding, Marvin finds him.
Henry’s perspective:
He’s ALWAYS TALKING,
while I’m NICE.I don’t bother HIM.
Why won’t he do the same for ME?
Hamsters make TERRIBLE roommates.
On the two hundred and sixth day, Henry has had enough. He blows his top. He pours out his anger and tells Marvin to leave him alone.
Henry thinks it’s wonderful. Then Marvin very sadly apologizes:
I’m sorry.
I wish I knew you wanted quiet.
I talked to you because I like talking and I wanted you to talk to me.
Henry has a lot to think about. He realizes that different hamsters like different things. The two roommates are able to work out when it’s good to talk and when they should have quiet.
And they actually have fun together! I like when Henry tells Marvin he really is fast on that wheel.
It’s a child-size story on an important topic, infused with lots of humor. It’s a good story, but it will also give kids plenty to discuss.
cherylklein.com
abhialwar.com
penguin.com/kids
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Disclaimer: I am a professional librarian, but the views expressed are solely my own, and in no way represent the official views of my employer or of any committee or group of which I am part.
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