Horrid Henry is four short, funny stories about a boy who is horrid on purpose, and his perfectly behaved brother, Perfect Peter. Hachette lists the paperback, ISBN 9781444013849, with an interest age from about 5–6 years, for Key Stages 1 and 2.
What is the reading like?
Each story stands on its own and takes one sitting, with Tony Ross’s drawings on most spreads. Younger children enjoy it read aloud; newer independent readers can manage one story at a time.
What might parents want to preview?
Henry is rude, plays tricks and fights with his brother, and he does not always learn a lesson. That is the joke, and most children know he is not a role model. If your child copies what they read, talk about the difference between funny in a book and fair at home.
Which book should we start with?
Start with the first book, Horrid Henry. After that the books can be read in any order, as each holds its own set of stories.
Try a little book chat
Ask: “Was Henry really horrid this time, or was Peter annoying too?” It invites your child to see both sides, and they usually have strong opinions.
Questions parents ask
What age is Horrid Henry for?
Hachette gives an interest age from about 5–6 years for the paperback. Read a story aloud first if your child is just starting to read alone.
Is Horrid Henry a bad influence?
Henry’s behaviour is exaggerated for laughs, and Peter’s perfect behaviour is teased too. Talking about what Henry did and why can turn the jokes into a good conversation.
Do the books have to be read in order?
No. Each book is a set of separate stories. Starting with the first is simply where the characters are introduced.
