The Egg Incident

Humphrey is the descendant of the famous Humpty Dumpty. Because of his uncle's catastrophic accident, Humphrey's parents have raised him in a state of hyper-vigilance, literally swaddling him in protective gear. When he meets a girl named Princess who invites him to play, Humphrey must navigate his internal anxiety and his parents' overprotectiveness to experience the joys of childhood. SENSITIVE TOPICS: The book deals with intergenerational trauma and anxiety in a metaphorical, secular way. The 'accident' of the past is treated with humor but the resulting fear in the parents is realistic. The resolution is hopeful, emphasizing managed risk over total isolation. EMOTIONAL ARC: It begins with a sense of restriction and high-alert anxiety. As Humphrey builds a friendship, the tone shifts toward curiosity and excitement, ending on a triumphant note of liberation and balanced safety. IDEAL READER: A 6-year-old who is perfectionistic or risk-averse, perhaps someone who has had a minor injury and is now afraid to return to the playground. PARENT TRIGGER: This book may trigger parents who recognize their own 'helicopter' tendencies. The moment the parents insist on extra padding for a simple walk is a mirror for over-anxious caregiving. PARENT PREP: Read cold. The illustrations of Humphrey's 'safety gear' are great conversation starters about what makes us feel safe versus what holds us back. AGE EXPERIENCE: Younger children (4-5) will enjoy the slapstick humor of an egg in bubble wrap and the fairy tale references. Older children (7-8) will more keenly feel the social pressure Humphrey faces and the desire for autonomy from parental rules. DIFFERENTIATOR: It uses a well-known cultural touchstone (Humpty Dumpty) to explore the very modern concept of 'bubble-wrap parenting' without being preachy.