Common Sense Media Review
By Carrie Kingsley
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Great communication and kindness in this fun picture book.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 4+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
THE HUMBLE PIE spends his time quietly in the background, lifting others up so they can shine, helping events run smoothly and being overlooked while other, flashier friends get the glory. When he's paired with his friend Jake the Cake for a big school project, Jake is always too busy to help, and Humble Pie realizes that he's doing most of the work. Frustrated, Humble Pie decides to speak up and be honest about how Jake's lack of helping makes him feel— hopefully before the big project is due.
Is It Any Good?
This lovely picture book is a great example of how to clearly, kindly, stand up for yourself with people (or baked goods) that you care about. The Humble Pie reflects a dynamic that can be common among kids, teens, and adults, and clearly messages a way to approach these tough conversations. There's nothing subtle here, which makes it easier for young readers to adapt the conversation to their own situation. The pages are full of humor and funny images, like a cake wearing a ski helmet or a pie chasing cupcake toddlers.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how to approach a tough conversation like The Humble Pie had with Jake. What can you do to be clear and help get results? Why is it important to communicate honestly with people you care about?
Who do you know that's like the Humble Pie? Who is more like Jake?
What do you think of the way Humble Pie dealt with his feelings? Do you think it took courage for him to talk to Jake? When have you told someone a hard thing? What happened?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Pete Oswald
- Genre : Picture Book
- Topics : Friendship , School ( Elementary School )
- Character Strengths : Communication , Courage
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Harper Collins Publishers
- Publication date : November 4, 2025
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 4 - 8
- Number of pages : 40
- Available on : Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : November 4, 2025
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