Hippos Are Huge!

PreS-Gr 2--With gorgeous mixed-media illustrations and accessible, engaging language, this picture book will spur interest in the world of hippos. Trueman's vivid images take advantage of every inch of available space to convey the size of these creatures, and the "Isn't this cool?" tone of London's text keeps readers hooked. Two types of text appear on each page: larger print encompasses the main narrative full of fascinating facts (ideal for reading aloud), while smaller print presents drier statistics and additional facts of interest. With a focus on high-interest details--such as a spread featuring two bull hippos flinging dung at each other in warning--this title stands out. VERDICT A solid nonfiction read-aloud.--Kathleen Kelly MacMillan, Carroll County Public Library, MD

Copyright 2015 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

With gorgeous mixed-media illustrations and accessible, engaging language, this picture book will spur interest in the world of hippos.... With a focus on high-interest details—such as a spread featuring two bull hippos flinging dung at each other in warning—this title stands out.... A solid nonfiction read-aloud.
—School Library Journal (starred review)

This will make a satisfyingly uncivilized animal story for audiences looking to get beyond "Hungry Hungry Hippos."
—Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (starred review)

Fascinating... Mixed-media illustrations—which vary from double-page spreads to spot art—add to the free-flowing style... The combined effect is a playful, clever introduction to the hippo that works for read-alouds or independent study.
—Kirkus Reviews

The life of a familiar creature is presented with charm and appreciation.
—Horn Book

Perfect for group storytime reading or individual enjoyment, this is also an ideal book for teaching reference and research skills to beginning readers. An easy-to-use index highlights simple vocabulary (e.g. fighting, speed, weight). Sure to be a favorite!
—Booklist Online

From the up-close view of the inside of the hippo's mouth on the cover to the images of their backsides with swatting tails and balls of dung, perspective plays a big role in this engaging piece of nonfiction for younger readers.
—Literacy Daily

Students will be fascinated by this title and with the information and facts presented about the hippopotamus...Teachers will find it to be a great read-aloud.
—School Library Connection