Kids Lit
Books and More for Children and Teens

Hippo! No, rhino by Jeff Newman.

The inept zookeeper at the zoo accidentally labels the rhinocerous as a hippo.  The rhino is upset by this and tries to get the visitors to the zoo to fix it.  Unfortunately, all of the adults are happy to read the sign and just assume that it is a hippo.  It isn't fixed until finally a little boy takes care of it.  Then prepare yourself for the twist at the end.

Newman's almost wordless book is a joy.  His illustrations are hysterically funny, from the rhino using one of the birds on his back as a dart to the dejected rhino at the end who has finally given up.  Read this one aloud with plenty of gusto as the rhino tends to bellow in words that always rhyme-o.  Definitely worthy of the honor of being the final book in a storytime that will keep antsy children glued to their seats.  This will work for preschoolers and kindergarteners as well as older children who enjoy a good laugh. 

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Comments

This sounds deliciously fun! I'm seeking great books for the preschool set, and this one's definitely for the list. Thanks!

Posted by: TadMack | October 12, 2006 12:54 PM

This book is wonderful! The rhino has so much expression and personality. There is also a wonderful message about what it feels like for someone to be labeled, which definitely makes this appropriate for an older audience. I bought it for my future classroom after I read it!

Posted by: AnneP | November 7, 2007 8:55 AM

this book is cute, it reminds me a lot of my friend Teteng! =) i recommend it to kids and lolos alike!

Posted by: teteng | January 9, 2008 1:22 AM

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