Description

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Hippos may make you laugh, but watch out! An acclaimed naturalist takes an exuberant look at these massive, swift, and super dangerous animals.

What’s the deadliest animal in Africa? It’s not the lion or the crocodile—it’s the hippopotamus! Hippos have razor-sharp tusks, weigh as much as fifty men, and can run twenty-five miles per hour! Follow these hefty hulks as they glide underwater, play tug-of-war, swat balls of dung at one another, and nuzzle their young in the mud. Just don’t get too close—they could chomp you in two!

About the Author

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Jonathan London is an award-winning author of dozens of children’s books, including the popular Froggy series illustrated by Frank Remkiewicz. He is well known for his compassion for—and commitment to—wildlife, and many of his books are about animals. He lives in Northern California.

Matthew Trueman is the illustrator of One Beetle Too Many by Kathryn Lasky. He spent his childhood in Italy, but returned to the United States to attend art school. Matthew Trueman lives near a river and likes to eat, two things he has in common with hippos, he says. He lives in Phillipsburg, New Jersey.

Praise For…

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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