Hippopotamister

Hippopotamus follows his friend Red Panda into the working world after conditions at their zoo deteriorate. It's Red Panda who nicknames him Hippopotamister--it's more appropriate when they're among humans, he says. A self-effacing fellow, Hippopotamus worries on their first day in a restaurant kitchen. "How do I know my food will taste good?" Yet his delicious-looking Hippopasta Primavera shows natural talent. Brash Red Panda--"Trust your instincts, Hippopotamister. Mine never fail me"--not so much. His antipasto consists of "red vine licorice, mushrooms, and car keys." In a series of comic episodes, the two are hired and fired from a string of jobs. When Hippopotamus returns to the zoo, though, he has assembled the skills he needs to turn the place around--and there's a special job for Red Panda, too. Green's (Teen Boat!) characters burst with personality, his comedic sense shines, and his visual storytelling skills are solid. It's not until well into the story that readers begin to see where the characters' foibles will take them. The payoff's unconventional, too, the prospect of a career that's both meaningful and satisfying. Ages 5-8. (May)■

Gr 1-4--In this colorful step into the graphic novel format for younger middle grade readers, pages with panels are interspersed with full-page illustrations in a humorous tale of friendship and adventure. Red Panda and Hippopotamus live in a run-down zoo until Red Panda decides to leave and get a job among humans, eventually convincing Hippo to join him. Red Panda gives Hippo the moniker "Hippopotamister," claiming this will help him fit in with humans. Silliness ensues as the two try a variety of jobs, almost all of which Hippopotamister miraculously excels at while Red Panda fails spectacularly. So many failures have to add up to success eventually, don't they? Indeed, Hippopotamister brainstorms a way to use skills developed in the human world to help his animal friends back at the zoo. Readers will root for modest Hippopotamister as he loyally tolerates his bossy friend. Drawn in graphite and digitally colored, the artwork is bright, clear, and enticing. In one charming spread, Hippo mopes on a rock in the urban zoo; his worried expression turns to enlightenment as the sun sets, the sky darkens, and city lights come on in the background. While the text includes a smattering of sophisticated words, the characters and situations will appeal to younger readers, making this an attractive option for children who read at or above grade level but still prefer books with colorful pictures, funny characters, and innocent story lines. VERDICT A fun and engaging selection for readers just venturing into graphic novels.--Suzanne LaPierre, Fairfax County Public Library, VA