Little Ogre's Surprise Supper by Timothy Knapman

Everyone knows ogres eat children.
Everyone… except Jack.

When Little Ogre cheerfully tells Jack, I want you for supper, Jack is thrilled by the invitation. What he does not realise is that he is the supper, a very special birthday meal for Little Ogre’s mum. As the two spend time together, an unexpected friendship begins to grow, and Little Ogre is faced with a tricky dilemma when it is finally time to light the fire and fetch the cooking pot.

Warm, witty and gentle, Little Ogre’s Surprise Supper turns fairy-tale expectations upside down, showing that kindness, empathy and friendship can be far more satisfying than any feast. With a darkly comic edge that children adore, this story is perfect for shared reading and lively discussion.

Why we (and schools) love this book

• Challenges stereotypes and expectations, encouraging children to think critically about characters and stories.
• Opens conversations about friendship, empathy and choice in an accessible, memorable way.
• Perfect for read-alouds, with humour that appeals to children and adults alike.

Written by Timothy Knapman, Published by Pan Macmillan
Paperback | 32 pages