About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when preparing a young child for a new baby, or when an older sibling is showing signs of jealousy or frustration. It directly addresses the confusing mix of emotions, from excitement to feeling left out, that an older child often feels. The story follows Little Hippo as he discovers both the annoying things about his new baby sister, like her crying, and the wonderful things, like her cute little yawns. With simple text and engaging lift-the-flap illustrations, this book is perfect for the 2 to 4 year old crowd. It provides a gentle, reassuring way to validate a child's feelings and start a conversation about their new role as a big sibling.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The primary theme is sibling jealousy and the emotional upheaval of a growing family. The approach is direct but extremely gentle and simplified for a toddler audience. Using anthropomorphic hippos keeps the story emotionally accessible and secular. The resolution is hopeful, ending with Little Hippo's clear affection for his sister.
Ideal Reader
A 2-to-4-year-old who is either anticipating a new sibling or is in the early stages of adjusting to one. It is particularly effective for children who are less verbal and benefit from simple, concrete visual examples of complex feelings. The interactive format is perfect for toddlers with short attention spans.
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